U.S. patent application number 10/220659 was filed with the patent office on 2004-07-01 for wireless communications system and method.
Invention is credited to Gamse, Ian Elkan, Kagan, Michael L., Kamien, David, Rose, Charles Anthony.
Application Number | 20040127199 10/220659 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32652196 |
Filed Date | 2004-07-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040127199 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kagan, Michael L. ; et
al. |
July 1, 2004 |
Wireless communications system and method
Abstract
This invention discloses a method and a system for communicating
with a user including wirelessly broadcasting content which is
accessible to a multiplicity of users and which includes at least
some non-audio enabling a user to select a portion of the content
responsive to a selection by the user, capturing at least part of
the non-audio content, corresponding to the portion of the content
selected by the user and employing at least part of the captured
content to access a contact using a mobile communicator by
initially establishing contact with a non product-specific
communication facility and employing product-specific information
contained in the non-audio content.
Inventors: |
Kagan, Michael L.;
(Jerusalem, IL) ; Kamien, David; (Jerusalem,
IL) ; Gamse, Ian Elkan; (London, GB) ; Rose,
Charles Anthony; (London, GB) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HOFFMAN WASSON & GITLER, P.C
CRYSTAL CENTER 2, SUITE 522
2461 SOUTH CLARK STREET
ARLINGTON
VA
22202-3843
US
|
Family ID: |
32652196 |
Appl. No.: |
10/220659 |
Filed: |
January 7, 2003 |
PCT Filed: |
March 1, 2001 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/IL01/00195 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
455/414.1 ;
455/3.04 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04H 60/63 20130101;
H04H 20/93 20130101; H04H 60/85 20130101; H04H 20/28 20130101; H04H
20/34 20130101; H04H 60/51 20130101; H04H 60/91 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
455/414.1 ;
455/003.04 |
International
Class: |
H04H 001/00 |
Claims
1. A method of communicating with a user comprising: wirelessly
broadcasting content which is accessible to a multiplicity of users
and which includes at least some non-audio content which is not
visible to said users without user actuation and which includes
product-specific information; enabling a user to select a portion
of said content; responsive to a selection by said user, capturing
at least part of said non-audio content, corresponding to said
portion of said content selected by said user; and employing at
least part of said captured content to access a contact using a
mobile communicator by initially establishing contact with a non
product-specific communication facility and employing
product-specific information contained in said non-audio
content.
2. A method of communicating with a user according to claim 1 and
wherein said employing involves an action by said user.
3. A method of communicating with a user according to claim 1 and
wherein said employing takes place automatically.
4. A method of communicating with a user according to any of claims
1-3 and wherein said wirelessly broadcasting comprises radio
broadcasting.
5. A method of communicating with a user according to any of claims
1-4 and wherein said wirelessly broadcasting comprises television
broadcasting.
6. A method of communicating with a user according to any of claims
1-5 and wherein said wirelessly broadcasting comprises Bluetooth
transmitting.
7. A method of communicating with a user according to claim 4 and
wherein said radio broadcasting comprises FM broadcasting.
8. A method of communicating with a user according to any of claims
1-7 and wherein said wirelessly broadcasting comprises satellite
broadcasting.
9. A method of communicating with a user according to any of claims
1-8 and wherein said enabling comprises prompting a user to make a
selection.
10. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 1-9 and wherein said enabling comprises enabling a user to
make an unprompted selection.
11. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 1-10 and wherein said enabling comprises enabling a user to
make a selection orally.
12. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 1-11 and wherein said enabling comprises enabling a user to
make a selection by a manual actuation.
13. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 1-12 and wherein said enabling comprises enabling a user to
preselect certain content based on user determined criteria.
14. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 1-13 and wherein said capturing comprises capturing at least
part of said content carried by a sub-carrier, corresponding to
said portion of said content selected by said user.
15. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 1-14 and wherein said contact is a web site.
16. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 1-15 and wherein said contact is a telephone
communicator.
17. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 1-16 and also comprising providing communication via at
least one facilitator between a broadcast facility providing said
wirelessly broadcasting and at least one of a product-specific
communication facility and said non product-specific communication
facility.
18. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 1-17 and wherein said wirelessly broadcasting comprises
digital broadcasting.
19. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 1-18 and wherein said enabling includes providing
communication between said non product-specific communication
facility and at least one product specific communication
facility.
20. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 1-19 and wherein said enabling includes automatically
providing product specific interactive communication between said
user via non product-specific communication facility with at least
one product specific communication facility.
21. A method of communicating with a user comprising: wirelessly
broadcasting content including non-audio content which is
accessible to a multiplicity of users and is not visible to said
users without user actuation; enabling a user to preselect certain
non-audio content based on user determined criteria; responsive to
said preselection, capturing at least part of said non-audio
content; and employing a mobile communicator using at least part of
said captured non-audio content to access a contact.
22. A method of communicating with a user according to claim 21 and
wherein said employing involves an action by said user.
23. A method of communicating with a user according to claim 21 and
wherein said employing takes place automatically.
24. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 21-23 and wherein said wirelessly broadcasting comprises
radio broadcasting.
25. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 21-24 and wherein said wirelessly broadcasting comprises
television broadcasting.
26. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 21-25 and wherein said wirelessly broadcasting comprises
Bluetooth transmitting.
27. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 21-26 and wherein said radio broadcasting comprises FM
broadcasting.
28. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 21-27 and wherein said wirelessly broadcasting comprises
satellite broadcasting.
29. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 21-28 and wherein said enabling comprises prompting a user
to make a selection.
30. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 21-29 and wherein said enabling comprises enabling a user to
make an unprompted selection.
31. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 21-30 and wherein said enabling comprises enabling a user to
make a selection orally.
32. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 21-31 and wherein said enabling comprises enabling a user to
make a selection by a manual actuation.
33. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 21-32 and wherein said enabling comprises enabling a user to
preselect multiple types of content based on user determined
criteria.
34. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 21-33 and wherein said capturing comprises capturing at
least part of said content carried by a sub-carrier, corresponding
to said portion of said content selected by said user.
35. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 21-34 and wherein said contact is a web site.
36. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 21-35 and wherein said contact is a telephone
communicator.
37. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 21-36 and also comprising providing communication via at
least one facilitator between a broadcast facility providing said
wirelessly broadcasting and at least one of a product-specific
communication facility and said non product-specific communication
facility.
38. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 21-37 and wherein said wirelessly broadcasting comprises
digital broadcasting.
39. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 21-38 and wherein said enabling includes providing
communication between said non product-specific communication
facility and at least one product specific communication
facility.
40. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 21-39 and wherein said enabling includes automatically
providing product specific interactive communication between said
user via non product-specific communication facility with at least
one product specific communication facility.
41. A method of communicating with a user comprising: wirelessly
broadcasting content which is accessible to a multiplicity of users
and which is carried by a carrier and a sub-carrier, a non-audible
portion of said content including product-specific interactive
information; enabling a user to select a portion of said content;
responsive to a selection by said user, capturing at least part of
said content carried by said sub-carrier, corresponding to said
portion of said content selected by said user; and employing at
least part of said captured content to access a contact for at
least partially product-specific interaction.
42. A method of communicating with a user according to claim 41 and
wherein said employing involves an action by said user.
43. A method of communicating with a user according to claim 41 and
wherein said employing takes place automatically.
44. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 41-43 and wherein said wirelessly broadcasting comprises
radio broadcasting.
45. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 41-44 and wherein said wirelessly broadcasting comprises
television broadcasting.
46. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 41-45 and wherein said wirelessly broadcasting comprises
Bluetooth transmitting.
47. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 41-46 and wherein said radio broadcasting comprises FM
broadcasting.
48. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 41-47 and wherein said wirelessly broadcasting comprises
satellite broadcasting.
49. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 41-48 and wherein said enabling comprises prompting a user
to make a selection.
50. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 41-49 and wherein said enabling comprises enabling a user to
make an unprompted selection.
51. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 41-50 and wherein said enabling comprises enabling a user to
make a selection orally.
52. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 41-51 and wherein said enabling comprises enabling a user to
make a selection by a manual actuation.
53. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 41-52 and wherein said enabling comprises enabling a user to
preselect certain content based on user determined criteria.
54. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 41-53 and wherein said capturing comprises capturing at
least part of said content carried by said sub-carrier,
corresponding to said portion of said content selected by said
user.
55. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 41-54 and wherein said contact is a web site.
56. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 41-55 and wherein said contact is a telephone
communicator.
57. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 41-56 and also comprising providing communication via at
least one facilitator between a broadcast facility providing said
wirelessly broadcasting and at least one of a product-specific
communication facility and said non product-specific communication
facility.
58. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 41-57 and wherein said wirelessly broadcasting comprises
digital broadcasting.
59. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 41-58 and wherein said enabling includes providing
communication between said non product-specific communication
facility and at least one product specific communication
facility.
60. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 41-59 and wherein said enabling includes automatically
providing product specific interactive communication between said
user via non product-specific communication facility with at least
one product specific communication facility.
61. A method for providing interaction between a multiplicity of
users and at least one communication facility comprising: receiving
non-user sensible content on a mobile communicator; broadcasting
user-sensible content to a first user receiver in synchronization
with providing said non-user sensible content to said mobile
communicator; enabling a user to capture selected user non-sensible
content on said mobile communicator in response to said
user-sensible content received by said user via said first
receiver; and providing interaction between said user and said at
least one communication facility based on said user non-sensible
content.
62. A method according to claim 61 and wherein enabling said user
to capture involves input to said mobile communicator of
information identifying said user-sensible content which is
synchronized with said user non-sensible content
63. A method according to claim 61 or claim 62 and wherein said
input to said mobile communicator of information identifying said
user-sensible content which is synchronized with said user
non-sensible content is effected automatically in response to a
user capture command.
64. A method according to claim 61 or claim 62 and wherein said
input to said mobile communicator of information identifying said
user-sensible content which is synchronized with said user
non-sensible content is effected in response to a user capture
command specifying a broadcast channel along which the user is
receiving said user sensible content and providing a time
indication enabling said user sensible content on said broadcast
channel to be unambiguously identified.
65. A method according to any of claims 61-64 and wherein said
enabling comprises prompting a user to make a selection.
66. A method according to any of claims 61-65 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make an unprompted
selection.
67. A method according to any of claims 61-66 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection orally.
68. A method according to any of claims 61-67 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection by a manual
actuation.
69. A method according to any of claims 61-68 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to preselect certain content
based on user determined criteria.
70. A method according to any of claims 61-69 and wherein said
capture comprises capturing at least part of said content carried
by a sub-carrier, corresponding to said portion of said content
selected by said user.
71. A method according to any of claims 61-70 and wherein said
contact is a web site.
72. A method according to any of claims 61-71 and wherein said
contact is a telephone communicator.
73. A method according to any of claims 61-72 and also comprising
providing communication via at least one facilitator between a
broadcast facility and at least one of a product-specific
communication facility and said non product-specific communication
facility.
74. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 61-73 and wherein said enabling includes providing
communication between a non product-specific communication facility
and at least one product specific communication facility.
75. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 61-74 and wherein said enabling includes automatically
providing product specific interactive communication between said
user via non product-specific communication facility with at least
one product specific communication facility.
76. A method according to any of claims 61-75 and also comprising
radio broadcasting said content.
77. A method according to any of claims 61-76 and also comprising
television broadcasting said content.
78. A method according to any of claims 61-77 and also comprising
broadcasting said content via Bluetooth.
79. A method according to any of claims 61-78 and also comprising
FM broadcasting said content.
80. A method according to any of claims 61-79 and also comprising
satellite broadcasting said content.
81. A method for providing at least partially automatic
product-specific interaction between a multiplicity of users and a
plurality of product-specific communication facilities comprising:
broadcasting user-sensible content in synchronization with user
non-sensible content; enabling a user to capture selected user
non-sensible content in response to said user-sensible content; and
providing at least partially automatic product-specific mobile
interaction via a non-product specific communication facility with
at least one of said plurality of product-specific communication
facilities
82. A method according to claim 81 and wherein said providing
involves an action by said user.
83. A method according to claim 81 and wherein said providing takes
place automatically.
84. A method according to any of claims 81-83 and wherein said
broadcasting comprises radio broadcasting.
85. A method according to any of claims 81-84 and wherein said
broadcasting comprises television broadcasting.
86. A method according to any of claims 81-85 and wherein said
broadcasting comprises Bluetooth transmitting.
87. A method according to claim 84 and wherein said radio
broadcasting comprises FM broadcasting.
88. A method according to any of claims 81-87 and wherein said
broadcasting comprises satellite broadcasting.
89. A method according to any of claims 81-88 and wherein said
enabling comprises prompting a user to make a selection.
90. A method according to any of claims 81-89 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make an unprompted
selection.
91. A method according to any of claims 81-90 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection orally.
92. A method according to any of claims 81-91 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection by a manual
actuation.
93. A method according to any of claims 81-92 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to preselect certain content
based on user determined criteria.
94. A method according to any of claims 81-93 and wherein said
capture comprises capturing at least part of said content carried
by a sub-carrier, corresponding to said portion of said content
selected by said user.
95. A method according to any of claims 81-94 and wherein said
contact is a web site.
96. A method according to any of claims 81-95 and wherein said
contact is a telephone communicator.
97. A method according to any of claims 81-96 and also comprising
providing communication via at least one facilitator between a
broadcast facility providing said broadcasting and at least one of
a product-specific communication facility and said non
product-specific communication facility.
98. A method according to any of claims 81-97 and wherein said
broadcasting comprises digital broadcasting.
99. A method according to any of claims 81-98 and wherein said
providing includes providing communication between said non
product-specific communication facility and a plurality of product
specific communication facilities.
100. A method according to any of claims 81-99 and wherein said
providing includes automatically providing product specific
interactive communication between said user via non
product-specific communication facility with at least one product
specific communication facility.
101. A method for providing at least partially automatic
product-specific interaction between a multiplicity of users and a
plurality of product-specific communication facilities comprising:
broadcasting user-sensible content to a first user receiver in
synchronization with broadcasting user non-sensible content to a
second user receiver; enabling a user to capture selected user
non-sensible content on said second receiver in response to said
user-sensible content received by said user via said first
receiver; and providing at least partially automatic
product-specific interaction via a non-product specific
communication facility with at least one of said plurality of
product-specific communication facilities.
102. A method according to claim 101 and wherein said enabling
involves an action by said user.
103. A method according to claim 101 and wherein said enabling
takes place automatically.
104. A method according to any of claims 101-103 and wherein said
broadcasting comprises radio broadcasting.
105. A method according to any of claims 101-104 and wherein said
broadcasting comprises television broadcasting.
106. A method according to any of claims 1-5 and wherein said
broadcasting comprises Bluetooth transmitting.
107. A method according to claim 104 and wherein said radio
broadcasting comprises FM broadcasting.
108. A method according to any of claims 101-107 and wherein said
broadcasting comprises satellite broadcasting.
109. A method according to any of claims 101-108 and wherein said
enabling comprises prompting a user to make a selection.
110. A method according to any of claims 101-109 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make an unprompted
selection.
111. A method according to any of claims 101-110 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection orally,
112. A method according to any of claims 101-111 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection by a manual
actuation.
113. A method according to any of claims 101-112 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to preselect certain content
based on user determined criteria.
114. A method according to any of claims 101-113 and wherein said
capture comprises capturing at least part of said content carried
by a sub-carrier, corresponding to said portion of said content
selected by said user.
115. A method according to any of claims 101-114 and wherein said
contact is a web site.
116. A method according to any of claims 101-115 and wherein said
contact is a telephone communicator.
117. A method according to any of claims 101-116 and also
comprising providing communication via at least one facilitator
between a broadcast facility providing said wirelessly broadcasting
and at least one of a product-specific communication facility and
said non product-specific communication facility.
118. A method according to any of claims 101-117 and wherein said
broadcasting comprises digital broadcasting.
119. A method according to any of claims 101-118 and wherein said
providing employs is actuated at least partially by said
content.
120. A method according to any of claims 101-119 and wherein said
providing includes automatically providing product specific
interactive communication between said user via non
product-specific communication facility with at least one product
specific communication facility.
121. A method for providing interaction between a multiplicity of
users and at least one communication facility comprising: receiving
non-user sensible content at a mobile communicator; providing user
viewable content to a user in synchronization with provision of
said user non-sensible content to said mobile communicator;
enabling a user to capture selected user non-sensible content on
said mobile communicator in response to said user-sensible content
received by said user; and providing interaction between said user
and said at least one communication facility based on said user
non-sensible content.
122. A method according to claim 121 and wherein enabling said user
to capture involves input to said mobile communicator of
information identifying said user-sensible content.
123. A method according to claim 121 and wherein said input to said
mobile communicator of information identifying said user-sensible
content is synchronized automatically.
124. A method according to claim 121 and wherein enabling said user
to capture involves input to said mobile communicator of
information identifying said user-sensible content which is
synchronized with said user non-sensible content
125. A method according to claim 121 or claim 122 and wherein said
input to said mobile communicator of information identifying said
user-sensible content which is synchronized with said user
non-sensible content is effected automatically in response to a
user capture command.
126. A method according to claim 121 or claim 122 and wherein said
input to said mobile communicator of information identifying said
user-sensible content which is synchronized with said user
non-sensible content is effected in response to a user capture
command specifying a broadcast channel along which the user is
receiving said user sensible content and providing a time
indication enabling said user sensible content on said broadcast
channel to be unambiguously identified.
127. A method according to any of claims 121-124 and wherein said
enabling comprises prompting a user to make a selection.
128. A method according to any of claims 121-127 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make an unprompted
selection.
129. A method according to any of claims 121-128 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection orally.
130. A method according to any of claims 121-129 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection by a manual
actuation.
131. A method according to any of claims 121-130 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to preselect certain content
based on user determined criteria.
132. A method according to any of claims 121-131 and wherein said
capture comprises capturing at least part of said content carried
by a sub-carrier, corresponding to said portion of said content
selected by said user.
133. A method according to any of claims 121-120 and wherein said
contact is a web site.
134. A method according to any of claims 121-133 and wherein said
contact is a telephone communicator.
135. A method according to any of claims 121-134 and also
comprising providing communication via at least one facilitator
between a broadcast facility and at least one of a product-specific
communication facility and said non product-specific communication
facility.
136. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 121-135 and wherein said enabling includes providing
communication between a non product-specific communication facility
and at least one product specific communication facility.
137. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 121-136 and wherein said enabling includes automatically
providing product specific interactive communication between said
user via non product-specific communication facility with at least
one product specific communication facility.
138. A method according to any of claims 121-137 and also
comprising radio broadcasting said content.
139. A method according to any of claims 121-138 and also
comprising television broadcasting said content.
140. A method according to any of claims 121-139 and also
comprising broadcasting said content via Bluetooth.
141. A method according to any of claims 121-140 and also
comprising FM broadcasting said content.
142. A method according to any of claims 121-141 and also
comprising satellite broadcasting said content.
143. A method for providing interaction between a multiplicity of
users and at least one communication facility comprising: receiving
non-user sensible content at a mobile communicator; broadcasting
user-sensible content to said mobile communicator in
synchronization with provision of said user non-sensible content to
said mobile communicator; enabling a user to capture selected user
non-sensible content on said mobile communicator in response to
said user-sensible content received by said user via said mobile
communicator; and providing interaction between said user and said
at least one communication facility based on said user non-sensible
content.
144. A method according to claim 143 and wherein enabling said user
capture involves input to said mobile communicator of information
identifying said user-sensible content which is synchronized with
said user non-sensible content
145. A method according to claim 144 and wherein said input to said
mobile communicator of information identifying said user-sensible
content which is synchronized with said user non-sensible content
is effected automatically in response to a user capture
command.
146. A method according to claim 143 and wherein enabling said user
to capture involves input to said mobile communicator of
information identifying said user-sensible content.
147. A method according to claim 143 and wherein said input to said
mobile communicator of information identifying said user-sensible
content is synchronized automatically.
148. A method according to claim 143 and wherein enabling said user
to capture involves input to said mobile communicator of
information identifying said user-sensible content which is
synchronized with said user non-sensible content
149. A method according to claim 143 or claim 144 and wherein said
input to said mobile communicator of information identifying said
user-sensible content which is synchronized with said user
non-sensible content is effected automatically in response to a
user capture command.
150. A method according to claim 143 or claim 144 and wherein said
input to said mobile communicator of information identifying said
user-sensible content which is synchronized with said user
non-sensible content is effected in response to a user capture
command specifying a broadcast channel along which the user is
receiving said user sensible content and providing a time
indication enabling said user sensible content on said broadcast
channel to be unambiguously identified.
151. A method according to any of claims 143-146 and wherein said
enabling comprises prompting a user to make a selection.
152. A method according to any of claims 143-151 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make an unprompted
selection.
153. A method according to any of claims 143-152 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection orally.
154. A method according to any of claims 143-153 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection by a manual
actuation.
155. A method according to any of claims 143-154 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to preselect certain content
based on user determined criteria.
156. A method according to any of claims 143-155 and wherein said
capture comprises capturing at least part of said content carried
by a sub-carrier, corresponding to said portion of said content
selected by said user.
157. A method according to any of claims 143-142 and wherein said
contact is a web site.
158. A method according to any of claims 143-157 and wherein said
contact is a telephone communicator.
159. A method according to any of claims 143-158 and also
comprising providing communication via at least one facilitator
between a broadcast facility and at least one of a product-specific
communication facility and said non product-specific communication
facility.
160. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 143-159 and wherein said enabling includes providing
communication between a non product-specific communication facility
and at least one product specific communication facility.
161. A method of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 143-160 and wherein said enabling includes automatically
providing product specific interactive communication between said
user via non product-specific communication facility with at least
one product specific communication facility.
162. A method according to any of claims 143-161 and also
comprising radio broadcasting said content.
163. A method according to any of claims 143-162 and also
comprising television broadcasting said content.
164. A method according to any of claims 143-163 and also
comprising broadcasting said content via Bluetooth.
165. A method according to any of claims 143-164 and also
comprising FM broadcasting said content.
166. A method according to any of claims 143-165 and also
comprising satellite broadcasting said content.
167. A system for communicating with a user comprising: a wireless
broadcasting facility operative to provide content to a
multiplicity of users and which includes at least some non-audio
product-specific content; a user operable content selection
functionality; a content capture functionality, responsive to a
selection by said user to capture at least part of said non-audio
content, corresponding to said portion of said content selected by
said user; and a product-specific contact access functionality,
employing at least part of said captured content to access a
contact via a non-product specific communication facility.
168. A system for communicating with a user according to claim 167
and wherein said contact access functionality includes a user
actuation interface.
169. A system according to either of claims 167 & 168 and
wherein said contact access functionality comprises a mobile
communicator employed by said user for automatically establishing
product-specific contact using at least some of said content.
170. A system according to any of claims 167-169 and wherein said
content includes non-audible content.
171. A system according to any of claims 167-169 and wherein said
content includes non-audible, non-visible content.
172. A system according to claim 171 and wherein said non-audible
content is not visible on a receiver of said content directly from
said broadcast facility.
173. A system for communicating with a user according to claim 167
or claim 168 and wherein said contact access functionality operates
automatically.
174. A system for communicating with a user according to claim 171
and wherein said radio broadcasting facility comprises an FM
broadcasting facility.
175. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 167-174 and wherein said user operable content selection
functionality includes prompting functionality for prompting a user
to make a selection.
176. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 167-175 and wherein said user operable content selection
functionality comprises user selection functionality enabling a
user to make an unprompted selection.
177. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 167-176 and wherein said user operable content selection
functionality comprises voice activated user selection
functionality enabling a user to make a selection orally.
178. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 167-177 and wherein said user operable content selection
functionality comprises manually activated user selection
functionality enabling a user to make a selection by a manual
actuation.
179. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 167-178 and wherein said user operable content selection
functionality comprises preselection functionality enabling a user
to preselect certain content based on user determined criteria.
180. A system for communicating with a user according to claim
167-179 and wherein said content capture functionality comprises
sub-carrier content capture functionality operative to capture at
least part of said content carried by said sub-carrier,
corresponding to said portion of said content selected by said
user.
181. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 167-180 and wherein said contact is a web site.
182. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 167-181 and wherein said contact is a telephone
communicator.
183. A system according to any of claims 167-182 and wherein said
wireless broadcasting facility comprises a radio broadcasting
facility.
184. A system according to any of claims 167-183 and wherein said
wireless broadcasting facility comprises a television broadcasting
facility.
185. A system according to any of claims 167-184 and wherein said
wireless broadcasting facility comprises a Bluetooth broadcasting
facility.
186. A system according to any of claims 167-185 and wherein said
wireless broadcasting facility comprises an FM broadcasting
facility.
187. A system according to any of claims 167-186 and wherein said
wireless broadcasting facility comprises a satellite broadcasting
facility.
188. A system for communicating with a user comprising: a wireless
broadcasting facility operative to provide content to a
multiplicity of users; a user operable content selection
functionality; a content capture functionality, responsive to a
selection by said user to capture at least part of said content
based on predetermined criteria; a contact access functionality,
employing at least part of said captured content to access a
contact; and a facilitator operative to functionally interconnect
said wireless broadcasting facility and said contact access
functionality.
189. A system according to claim 188 and wherein said facilitator
also is functionally interconnected with an advertising content
administrator.
190. A system according to either of claims 188 and 189 and wherein
said facilitator also provides financial clearinghouse
functionality to at least said wireless broadcasting facility and
said contact access functionality.
191. A system according to any of claims 188-190 and wherein said
contact access functionality includes at least one non-product
specific communication facility and a plurality of product specific
communication facilities.
192. A system according to any of claims 188-191 and wherein said
contact access functionality comprises a mobile communicator
employed by said user for automatically establishing
product-specific contact using at least some of said content.
193. A system according to any of claims 188-192 and wherein said
content includes non-audible content.
194. A system according to any of claims 188-193 and wherein said
content includes non-audible, non-visible content.
195. A system according to claim 194 and wherein said non-audible
content is not visible on a receiver of said content directly from
said broadcast facility.
196. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 188-195 and wherein said contact access functionality
includes a user actuation interface.
197. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 188-196 and wherein said contact access functionality
operates automatically.
198. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 188-197 and wherein said wireless broadcasting facility
comprises a radio broadcasting facility.
199. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 188-198 and wherein said wireless broadcasting facility
comprises a television broadcasting facility.
200. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 188-199 and wherein said wireless broadcasting facility
comprises a Bluetooth facility.
201. A system for communicating with a user according to claim 198
and wherein said radio broadcasting facility comprises an FM
broadcasting facility.
202. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 188-201 and wherein said user operable content pre-selection
functionality comprises voice activated user selection
functionality enabling a user to make a selection orally.
203. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 188-202 and wherein said user operable content selection
functionality comprises manually activated user selection
functionality enabling a user to make a selection by a manual
actuation.
204. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 188-203 and wherein said user operable content selection
functionality comprises preselection functionality enabling a user
to preselect certain content based on user determined criteria.
205. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 188-204 and wherein said content capture functionality
comprises sub-carrier content capture functionality operative to
capture at least part of said content carried by said sub-carrier,
corresponding to said portion of said content pre-selected by said
user.
206. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 188-204 and wherein said contact is a web site.
207. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 188-206 and wherein said contact is a telephone
communicator.
208. A system for communicating with a user comprising: a wireless
broadcasting facility operative to provide content to a
multiplicity of users, which content is inaudible and is not
visible to said users without user actuation; a user operable
content selection functionality; a content capture functionality,
responsive to a selection by said user to capture at least part of
said content; and contact access functionality, employing at least
part of said content captured by said user to automatically access
a contact in response to user actuation.
209. A system according to claim 208 and wherein said contact
access functionality provides automatic product-specific contact
access using at least part of said content captured by said
user.
210. A system for communicating with a user according to either of
claims 208 & 209 and wherein said wireless broadcasting
facility comprises a Bluetooth facility.
211. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 208-210 and wherein said radio broadcasting facility
comprises an FM broadcasting facility.
212. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 208-211 and including user operable content pre-selection
functionality comprising voice activated user selection
functionality enabling a user to make a selection orally.
213. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 208-212 and comprising user operable content selection
functionality including manually activated user selection
functionality enabling a user to make a selection by a manual
actuation.
214. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 208-213 and comprising user operable content selection
functionality including preselection functionality enabling a user
to preselect certain content based on user determined criteria.
215. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 208-214 and wherein said content capture functionality
comprises sub-carrier content capture functionality operative to
capture at least part of said content carried by said sub-carrier,
corresponding to said portion of said content pre-selected by said
user.
216. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 208-214 and wherein said contact is a web site.
217. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 208-216 and wherein said contact is a telephone
communicator.
218. A system for providing at least partially automatic
product-specific interaction between a multiplicity of users and a
plurality of product-specific communication facilities comprising:
a broadcast facility operative to broadcast user-sensible content
in synchronization with user non-sensible content; a user operative
content capture functionality enabling a user to capture selected
user non-sensible content in response to said user-sensible
content; a non-product specific communication facility; and a user
actuable contact access functionality including a mobile
communicator and providing at least partially automatic
product-specific interaction via said non-product specific
communication facility with at least one of said plurality of
product-specific communication facilities.
219. A system for communicating with a user according to claim 218
and wherein said wireless broadcasting facility comprises a
Bluetooth facility.
220. A system for communicating with a user according to claim 218
and wherein said radio broadcasting facility comprises a satellite
broadcasting facility.
221. A system for communicating with a user according to claim 218
and wherein said radio broadcasting facility comprises an FM
broadcasting facility.
222. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 211-221 and wherein said user operable content pre-selection
functionality comprises voice activated user selection
functionality enabling a user to make a selection orally.
223. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 211-222 and wherein said user operable content selection
functionality comprises manually activated user selection
functionality enabling a user to make a selection by a manual
actuation.
224. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 211-223 and wherein said user operable content selection
functionality comprises preselection functionality enabling a user
to preselect certain content based on user determined criteria.
225. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 211-224 and wherein said content capture functionality
comprises sub-carrier content capture functionality operative to
capture at least part of said content carried by said sub-carrier,
corresponding to said portion of said content pre-selected by said
user.
226. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 211-224 and wherein said contact is a web site.
227. A system for communicating with a user according to any of
claims 211-226 and wherein said contact is a telephone
communicator.
228. A system for providing at least partially automatic
product-specific interaction between a multiplicity of users and a
plurality of product-specific communication facilities comprising:
a synchronized broadcast facility operative to broadcast
user-sensible content to a first user receiver in synchronization
with broadcasting user non-sensible content to a second user
receiver; user capture functionality enabling a user to capture
selected user non-sensible content on said second receiver in
response to said user-sensible content received by said user via
said first receiver; and user actuable access functionality
providing at least partially automatic product-specific interaction
via a non-product specific communication facility between said user
and at least one of said plurality of product-specific
communication facilities.
229. A system according to claim 228 and wherein said providing
involves an action by said user.
230. A system according to claim 228 and wherein said providing
takes place automatically.
231. A system according to any of claims 228-230 and wherein said
broadcasting comprises radio broadcasting.
232. A system according to any of claims 228-231 and wherein said
broadcasting comprises television broadcasting.
233. A system according to any of claims 228-232 and wherein said
broadcasting comprises Bluetooth transmitting.
234. A system according to claim 231 and wherein said radio
broadcasting comprises FM broadcasting.
235. A system according to any of claims 228-234 and wherein said
broadcasting comprises satellite broadcasting.
236. A system according to any of claims 228-235 and wherein said
enabling comprises prompting a user to make a selection.
237. A system according to any of claims 228-236 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make an unprompted
selection.
238. A system according to any of claims 228-237 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection orally.
239. A system according to any of claims 228-238 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection by a manual
actuation.
240. A system according to any of claims 228-239 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to preselect certain content
based on user determined criteria.
241. A system according to any of claims 228-240 and wherein said
capture comprises capturing at least part of said content carried
by a sub-carrier, corresponding to said portion of said content
selected by said user.
242. A system according to any of claims 228-241 and wherein said
contact is a web site.
243. A system according to any of claims 228-242 and wherein said
contact is a telephone communicator.
244. A system according to any of claims 228-243 and also
comprising providing communication via at least one facilitator
between a broadcast facility providing said broadcasting and at
least one of a product-specific communication facility and said non
product-specific communication facility.
245. A system according to any of claims 228-244 and wherein said
broadcasting comprises digital broadcasting.
246. A system according to any of claims 228-245 and wherein said
providing includes providing communication between said non
product-specific communication facility and a plurality of product
specific communication facilities.
247. A system according to any of claims 228-246 and wherein said
providing includes automatically providing product specific
interactive communication between said user via non
product-specific communication facility with at least one product
specific communication facility.
248. A system for providing interaction between a multiplicity of
users and at least one communication facility comprising: a mobile
communicator operative to receive non-user sensible content; at
least one synchronized broadcast facility operative to broadcast
user-sensible content to a first user receiver in synchronization
with provision of said user non-sensible content to said mobile
communicator; user capture functionality enabling a user to capture
selected user non-sensible content on said mobile communicator in
response to said user-sensible content received by said user via
said first receiver; and user actuable access functionality
providing interaction between said user and said at least one
communication facility based on said user non-sensible content.
249. A system according to claim 248 and wherein said user capture
functionality involves input to said mobile communicator of
information identifying said user-sensible content which is
synchronized with said user non-sensible content
250. A system according to claim 248 and wherein said input to said
mobile communicator of information identifying said user-sensible
content which is synchronized with said user non-sensible content
is effected automatically in response to a user capture
command.
251. A system according to claim 248 and wherein said input to said
mobile communicator of information identifying said user-sensible
content which is synchronized with said user non-sensible content
is effected in response to a user capture command specifying a
broadcast channel along which the user is receiving said user
sensible content and providing a time indication enabling said user
sensible content on said broadcast channel to be unambiguously
identified.
252. A system according to claim 248 and wherein enabling said user
to capture involves input to said mobile communicator of
information identifying said user-sensible content.
253. A system according to claim 248 and wherein said input to said
mobile communicator of information identifying said user-sensible
content is synchronized automatically.
254. A system according to claim 248 and wherein enabling said user
to capture involves input to said mobile communicator of
information identifying said user-sensible content which is
synchronized with said user non-sensible content
255. A system according to claim 248 or claim 249 and wherein said
input to said mobile communicator of information identifying said
user-sensible content which is synchronized with said user
non-sensible content is effected automatically in response to a
user capture command.
256. A system according to claim 248 or claim 249 and wherein said
input to said mobile communicator of information identifying said
user-sensible content which is synchronized with said user
non-sensible content is effected in response to a user capture
command specifying a broadcast channel along which the user is
receiving said user sensible content and providing a time
indication enabling said user sensible content on said broadcast
channel to be unambiguously identified.
257. A system according to any of claims 248-256 and wherein said
enabling comprises prompting a user to make a selection.
258. A system according to any of claims 248-257 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make an unprompted
selection.
259. A system according to any of claims 248-258 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection orally.
260. A system according to any of claims 248-259 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection by a manual
actuation.
261. A system according to any of claims 248-260 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to preselect certain content
based on user determined criteria.
262. A system according to any of claims 248-261 and wherein said
capture comprises capturing at least part of said content carried
by a sub-carrier, corresponding to said portion of said content
selected by said user.
263. A system according to any of claims 248-262 and wherein said
contact is a web site.
264. A system according to any of claims 248-263 and wherein said
contact is a telephone communicator.
265. A system according to any of claims 248-264 and also
comprising providing communication via at least one facilitator
between a broadcast facility and at least one of a product-specific
communication facility and said non product-specific communication
facility.
266. A system of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 248-265 and wherein said enabling includes providing
communication between a non product-specific communication facility
and at least one product specific communication facility.
267. A system of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 248-266 and wherein said enabling includes automatically
providing product specific interactive communication between said
user via non product-specific communication facility with at least
one product specific communication facility.
268. A system according to any of claims 248-267 and also
comprising radio broadcasting said content.
269. A system according to any of claims 248-268 and also
comprising television broadcasting said content.
270. A system according to any of claims 248-269 and also
comprising broadcasting said content via Bluetooth.
271. A system according to any of claims 248-270 and also
comprising FM broadcasting said content.
272. A system according to any of claims 248-271 and also
comprising satellite broadcasting said content.
273. A system for providing interaction between a multiplicity of
users and at least one communication facility comprising: a mobile
communicator operative to receive non-user sensible content; a
billboard facility providing user viewable content to a user in
synchronization with provision of said user non-sensible content to
said mobile communicator; user capture functionality enabling a
user to capture selected user non-sensible content on said mobile
communicator in response to said user-sensible content received by
said user; and user actuable access functionality providing
interaction between said user and said at least one communication
facility based on said user non-sensible content.
274. A system according to claim 273 and wherein said user capture
functionality involves input to said mobile communicator of
information identifying said user-sensible content.
275. A system according to claim 273 and wherein said input to said
mobile communicator of information identifying said user-sensible
content is synchronized automatically.
276. A system according to any of claims 273-275 and wherein said
billboard facility is a stationary billboard facility.
277. A system according to any of claims 273-276 and wherein said
billboard facility is a vehicle mounted billboard facility.
278. A system according to claim 273 and wherein enabling said user
capture involves input to said mobile communicator of information
identifying said user-sensible content which is synchronized with
said user non-sensible content
279. A system according to claim 273 and wherein said input to said
mobile communicator of information identifying said user-sensible
content which is synchronized with said user non-sensible content
is effected automatically in response to a user capture
command.
280. A system according to claim 273 and wherein enabling said user
to capture involves input to said mobile communicator of
information identifying said user-sensible content.
281. A system according to claim 273 and wherein said input to said
mobile communicator of information identifying said user-sensible
content is synchronized automatically.
282. A system according to claim 273 and wherein enabling said user
to capture involves input to said mobile communicator of
information identifying said user-sensible content which is
synchronized with said user non-sensible content
283. A system according to any of claims 273 to 282 and wherein
said input to said mobile communicator of information identifying
said user-sensible content which is synchronized with said user
non-sensible content is effected automatically in response to a
user capture command.
284. A system according to any of claims 273 to 283 and wherein
said input to said mobile communicator of information identifying
said user-sensible content which is synchronized with said user
non-sensible content is effected in response to a user capture
command specifying a broadcast channel along which the user is
receiving said user sensible content and providing a time
indication enabling said user sensible content on said broadcast
channel to be unambiguously identified.
285. A system according to any of claims 273-284 and wherein said
enabling comprises prompting a user to make a selection.
286. A system according to any of claims 273-285 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make an unprompted
selection.
287. A system according to any of claims 273-277 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection orally.
288. A method according to any of claims 273-287 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection by a manual
actuation.
289. A system according to any of claims 273-288 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to preselect certain content
based on user determined criteria.
290. A system according to any of claims 273-289 and wherein said
capture comprises capturing at least part of said content carried
by a sub-carrier, corresponding to said portion of said content
selected by said user.
291. A system according to any of claims 273-290 and wherein said
contact is a web site.
292. A system according to any of claims 273-291 and wherein said
contact is a telephone communicator.
293. A system according to any of claims 273-292 and also
comprising providing communication via at least one facilitator
between a broadcast facility and at least one of a product-specific
communication facility and said non product-specific communication
facility.
294. A system of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 273-293 and wherein said enabling includes providing
communication between a non product-specific communication facility
and at least one product specific communication facility.
295. A system of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 273-294 and wherein said enabling includes automatically
providing product specific interactive communication between said
user via non product-specific communication facility with at least
one product specific communication facility.
296. A system according to any of claims 273-295 and also
comprising radio broadcasting said content.
297. A system according to any of claims 273-296 and also
comprising television broadcasting said content.
298. A system according to any of claims 273-297 and also
comprising broadcasting said content via Bluetooth.
299. A system according to any of claims 273-298 and also
comprising FM broadcasting said content.
300. A system according to any of claims 273-299 and also
comprising satellite broadcasting said content.
301. A system for providing interaction between a multiplicity of
users and at least one communication facility comprising: a mobile
communicator operative to receive non-user sensible content; at
least one synchronized broadcast facility operative to broadcast
user-sensible content to said mobile communicator in
synchronization with provision of said user non-sensible content to
said mobile communicator; user capture functionality enabling a
user to capture selected user non-sensible content on said mobile
communicator in response to said user-sensible content received by
said user via said mobile communicator; and user actuable access
functionality providing interaction between said user and said at
least one communication facility based on said user non-sensible
content.
302. A system according to claim 301 and wherein said user capture
functionality involves input to said mobile communicator of
information identifying said user-sensible content which is
synchronized with said user non-sensible content
303. A system according to claim 301 and wherein said input to said
mobile communicator of information identifying said user-sensible
content which is synchronized with said user non-sensible content
is effected automatically in response to a user capture
command.
304. A system according to any of claims 301 to 303 and wherein
enabling said user to capture involves input to said mobile
communicator of information identifying said user-sensible
content.
305. A system according to any of claims 301 to 304 and wherein
said input to said mobile communicator of information identifying
said user-sensible content is synchronized automatically.
306. A system according to claim any of claims 301-305 and wherein
enabling said user to capture involves input to said mobile
communicator of information identifying said user-sensible content
which is synchronized with said user non-sensible content
307. A system according to any of claims 301 to 306 and wherein
said input to said mobile communicator of information identifying
said user-sensible content which is synchronized with said user
non-sensible content is effected automatically in response to a
user capture command.
308. A system according to any of claims 301 to 307 and wherein
said input to said mobile communicator of information identifying
said user-sensible content which is synchronized with said user
non-sensible content is effected in response to a user capture
command specifying a broadcast channel along which the user is
receiving said user sensible content and providing a time
indication enabling said user sensible content on said broadcast
channel to be unambiguously identified.
309. A system according to any of claims 301-308 and wherein said
enabling comprises prompting a user to make a selection.
310. A system according to any of claims 301-309 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make an unprompted
selection.
311. A system according to any of claims 301-310 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection orally.
312. A system according to any of claims 301-311 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection by a manual
actuation.
313. A system according to any of claims 302-312 and wherein said
enabling comprises enabling a user to preselect certain content
based on user determined criteria.
314. A system according to any of claims 302-313 and wherein said
capture comprises capturing at least part of said content carried
by a sub-carrier, corresponding to said portion of said content
selected by said user.
315. A system according to any of claims 302-314 and wherein said
contact is a web site.
316. A system according to any of claims 302-315 and wherein said
contact is a telephone communicator.
317. A system according to any of claims 302-316 and also
comprising providing communication via at least one facilitator
between a broadcast facility and at least one of a product-specific
communication facility and said non product-specific communication
facility.
318. A system of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 302-317 and wherein said enabling includes providing
communication between a non product-specific communication facility
and at least one product specific communication facility.
319. A system of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 302-318 and wherein said enabling includes automatically
providing product specific interactive communication between said
user via non product-specific communication facility with at least
one product specific communication facility.
320. A system according to any of claims 302-319 and also
comprising radio broadcasting said content.
321. A system according to any of claims 302-320 and also
comprising television broadcasting said content.
322. A system according to any of claims 302-321 and also
comprising broadcasting said content via Bluetooth.
323. A system according to any of claims 302-322 and also
comprising FM broadcasting said content.
324. A system according to any of claims 302-323 and also
comprising satellite broadcasting said content.
325. A system for providing interaction between a multiplicity of
users and at least one communication facility comprising: receiving
non-user sensible content at a mobile communicator; broadcasting
user-sensible content to said mobile communicator in
synchronization with provision of said user non-sensible content to
said mobile communicator; enabling a user to capture selected user
non-sensible content on said mobile communicator in response to
said user-sensible content received by said user via said mobile
communicator; and providing interaction between said user and said
at least one communication facility based on said user non-sensible
content.
326. A system according to claim 325 and wherein enabling said user
capture involves input to said mobile communicator of information
identifying said user-sensible content which is synchronized with
said user non-sensible content
327. A system according to claim 326 and wherein said input to said
mobile communicator of information identifying said user-sensible
content which is synchronized with said user non-sensible content
is effected automatically in response to a user capture
command.
328. A system according to any of claims 325 to 327 and wherein
enabling said user capture involves input to said mobile
communicator of information identifying said user-sensible content
which is synchronized with said user non-sensible content
329. A system according to any of claims 325 to 328 and wherein
said input to said mobile communicator of information identifying
said user-sensible content which is synchronized with said user
non-sensible content is effected automatically in response to a
user capture command.
330. A system according to any of claims 325 to 329 and wherein
enabling said user to capture involves input to said mobile
communicator of information identifying said user-sensible
content.
331. A system according to any of claims 325 to 330 and wherein
said input to said mobile communicator of information identifying
said user-sensible content is synchronized automatically.
332. A system according to any of claims 325 to 331 and wherein
enabling said user to capture involves input to said mobile
communicator of information identifying said user-sensible content
which is synchronized with said user non-sensible content
333. A system according to any of claims 325 to 332 and wherein
said input to said mobile communicator of information identifying
said user-sensible content which is synchronized with said user
non-sensible content is effected automatically in response to a
user capture command.
334. A system according to any of claims 325 to 333 and wherein
said input to said mobile communicator of information identifying
said user-sensible content which is synchronized with said user
non-sensible content is effected in response to a user capture
command specifying a broadcast channel along which the user is
receiving said user sensible content and providing a time
indication enabling said user sensible content on said broadcast
channel to be unambiguously identified.
335. A system according to any of claims 325 to 334 and wherein
said enabling comprises prompting a user to make a selection.
336. A system according to any of claims 325 to 335 and wherein
said enabling comprises enabling a user to make an unprompted
selection.
337. A system according to any of claims 325 to 336 and wherein
said enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection
orally.
338. A system according to any of claims 325 to 337 and wherein
said enabling comprises enabling a user to make a selection by a
manual actuation.
339. A system according to any of claims 325 to 338 and wherein
said enabling comprises enabling a user to preselect certain
content based on user determined criteria.
340. A system according to any of claims 325 to 339 and wherein
said capture comprises capturing at least part of said content
carried by a sub-carrier, corresponding to said portion of said
content selected by said user.
341. A system according to any of claims 325 to 340 and wherein
said contact is a web site.
342. A system according to any of claims 325 to 341 and wherein
said contact is a telephone communicator.
343. A system according to any of claims 325 to 342 and also
comprising providing communication via at least one facilitator
between a broadcast facility and at least one of a product-specific
communication facility and said non product-specific communication
facility.
344. A system of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 325 to 343 and wherein said enabling includes providing
communication between a non product-specific communication facility
and at least one product specific communication facility.
345. A system of communicating with a user according to any of
claims 325 to 344 and wherein said enabling includes automatically
providing product specific interactive communication between said
user via non product-specific communication facility with at least
one product specific communication facility.
346. A system according to any of claims 325 to 345 and also
comprising radio broadcasting said content.
347. A system according to any of claims 325 to 346 and also
comprising television broadcasting said content.
348. A system according to any of claims 325 to 347 and also
comprising broadcasting said content via Bluetooth.
349. A system according to any of claims 325 to 348 and also
comprising FM broadcasting said content. 350. A system according to
any of claims 325 to 349 and also comprising satellite broadcasting
said content.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to wireless communications
generally and more particularly to accessing information using
contact information received wirelessly.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The current state of the art relevant to the present
invention is believed to be represented by the following U.S. Pat.
Nos. 5,063,610, 5,146,612, 5,301,359, 5,507,024, 5,553,315,
5,579,537, 5,661,787, 5,708,478, 5,832,223, 5,857,156, 5,902,865,
5,907,793, 5,949,492, 5,961,603, 5,991,737, 6,018,764, 6,028,644,
6,035,304, 6,038,434, 6,067,447, 6,081,699, 6,163,711
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] There is thus provided in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the present invention a method of communicating with
a user. The method includes wirelessly broadcasting content which
is accessible to a multiplicity of users and which includes at
least some non-audio content which is not visible to the users
without user actuation and which includes product-specific
information, enabling a user to select a portion of the content,
responsive to a selection by the user, capturing at least part of
the non-audio content, corresponding to the portion of the content
selected by the user and employing at least part of the captured
content to access a contact using a mobile communicator by
initially establishing contact with a non product-specific
communication facility and employing product-specific information
contained in the non-audio content.
[0004] There is provided in accordance With another preferred
embodiment of the present invention a method of communicating with
a user and includes wirelessly broadcasting content including
non-audio content which is accessible to a multiplicity of users
and is not visible to the users without user actuation, enabling a
user to preselect certain non-audio content based on user
determined criteria, responsive to the preselection, capturing at
least part of the non-audio content and employing a mobile
communicator using at least part of the captured non-audio content
to access a contact.
[0005] There is further provided in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the present invention a method of communicating with
a user and includes wirelessly broadcasting content which is
accessible to a multiplicity of users and which is carried by a
carrier and a sub-carrier, a non-audible portion of the content
including product-specific interactive information, enabling a user
to select a portion of the content, responsive to a selection by
the user, capturing at least part of the content carried by the
sub-carrier, corresponding to the portion of the content selected
by the user and employing at least part of the captured content to
access a contact for at least partially product-specific
interaction.
[0006] There is also provided in accordance with yet another
preferred embodiment of the present invention a method for
providing at least partially automatic product-specific interaction
between a multiplicity of users and a plurality of product-specific
communication facilities. The method includes broadcasting
user-sensible content in synchronization with user non-sensible
content, enabling a user to capture selected user non-sensible
content in response to the user-sensible content and providing at
least partially automatic product-specific mobile interaction via a
non-product specific communication facility with at least one of
the plurality of product-specific communication facilities
[0007] There is further provided in accordance with another
preferred embodiment of the present invention a method for
providing at least partially automatic product-specific interaction
between a multiplicity of users and a plurality of product-specific
communication facilities. The method includes broadcasting
user-sensible content to a first user receiver in synchronization
with broadcasting user non-sensible content to a second user
receiver, enabling a user to capture selected user non-sensible
content on the second receiver in response to the user-sensible
content received by the user via the first receiver and providing
at least partially automatic product-specific interaction via a
non-product specific communication facility with at least one of
the plurality of product-specific communication facilities.
[0008] There is further provided in accordance with yet another
preferred embodiment a system for providing at least partially
automatic product-specific interaction between a multiplicity of
users and a plurality of product-specific communication facilities.
The system includes a broadcast facility operative to broadcast
user-sensible content in synchronization with user non-sensible
content, a user operative content capture functionality enabling a
user to capture selected user non-sensible content in response to
the user-sensible content, a non-product specific communication
facility and a user actuable contact access functionality including
a mobile communicator and providing at least partially automatic
product-specific interaction via the non-product specific
communication facility with at least one of the plurality of
product-specific communication facilities.
[0009] There is further provided in accordance with yet another
preferred embodiment of the present invention a system for
providing at least partially automatic product-specific interaction
between a multiplicity of users and a plurality of product-specific
communication facilities. The system includes a synchronized
broadcast facility operative to broadcast user-sensible content to
a first user receiver in synchronization with broadcasting user
non-sensible content to a second user receiver, user capture
functionality enabling a user to capture selected user non-sensible
content on the second receiver in response to the user-sensible
content received by the user via the first receiver and user
actuable access functionality providing at least partially
automatic product-specific interaction via a non-product specific
communication facility between the user and at least one of the
plurality of product-specific communication facilities.
[0010] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the step of employing at least part of the
captured content involves an action by the user. Alternatively, the
step of employing at least part of the captured content takes place
automatically.
[0011] Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the step of wirelessly broadcasting includes
radio broadcasting, television broadcasting, Bluetooth transmitting
and/or satellite broadcasting. The radio broadcasting typically
includes FM broadcasting.
[0012] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the step of enabling a user to select a portion
of the content includes enabling a user to make a selection, to
make an unprompted selection, to make a selection orally, to make a
selection by a manual actuation and/or to preselect certain content
based on user determined criteria.
[0013] Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the step of capturing at least part of the
non-audio content includes capturing at least part of the content
carried by a sub-carrier, corresponding to the portion of the
content selected by the user.
[0014] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the contact is a web site and/or a telephone
communicator.
[0015] Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the method also includes providing
communication via at least one facilitator between a broadcast
facility providing the wirelessly broadcasting and at least one of
a product-specific communication facility and the non
product-specific communication facility. Preferably, the wirelessly
broadcasting includes digital broadcasting.
[0016] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the step of enabling a user to select a portion
of the content includes providing communication between the non
product-specific communication facility and at least one product
specific communication facility. Preferably, the step of enabling
includes automatically providing product specific interactive
communication between the user via non product-specific
communication facility with at least one product specific
communication facility.
[0017] Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the capture includes capturing at least part
of the content carried by a sub-carrier, corresponding to the
portion of the content selected by the user.
[0018] Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the step of providing at least partially
automatic product-specific mobile interaction includes providing
communication between the non product-specific communication
facility and a plurality of product specific communication
facilities. The step of providing also includes automatically
providing product specific interactive communication between the
user via non product-specific communication facility with at least
one product specific communication facility.
[0019] There is further provided in accordance with another
preferred embodiment of the present invention a method for
providing interaction between a multiplicity of users and at least
one communication facility. The method include receiving non-user
sensible content on a mobile communicator, broadcasting
user-sensible content to a first user receiver in synchronization
with providing the non-user sensible content to the mobile
communicator, enabling a user to capture selected user non-sensible
content on the mobile communicator in response to the user-sensible
content received by the user via the first receiver and providing
interaction between the user and the at least one communication
facility based on the user non-sensible content.
[0020] There is also provided in accordance with another preferred
embodiment of the present invention a system for providing
interaction between a multiplicity of users and at least one
communication facility. The system includes a mobile communicator
operative to receive non-user sensible content, a billboard
facility providing user viewable content to a user in
synchronization with provision of the user non-sensible content to
the mobile communicator, user capture functionality enabling a user
to capture selected user non-sensible content on the mobile
communicator in response to the user-sensible content received by
the user and user actuable access functionality providing
interaction between the user and the at least one communication
facility based on the user non-sensible content.
[0021] There is further provided in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the present invention a system for providing
interaction between a multiplicity of users and at least one
communication facility. The system includes a mobile communicator
operative to receive non-user sensible content, at least one
synchronized broadcast facility operative to broadcast
user-sensible content to the mobile communicator in synchronization
with provision of the user non-sensible content to the mobile
communicator, user capture functionality enabling a user to capture
selected user non-sensible content on the mobile communicator in
response to the user-sensible content received by the user via the
mobile communicator and user actuable access functionality
providing interaction between the user and the at least one
communication facility based on the user non-sensible content.
[0022] There is also provided in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the present invention a system for providing
interaction between a multiplicity of users and at least one
communication facility, including broadcasting user-sensible
content to the mobile communicator in synchronization with
provision of the user non-sensible content to the mobile
communicator, enabling a user to capture selected user non-sensible
content on the mobile communicator in response to the user-sensible
content received by the user via the mobile communicator and
providing interaction between the user and the at least one
communication facility based on the user non-sensible content.
[0023] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the user capture involves input to the mobile
communicator of information identifying the user-sensible content
which is synchronized with the user non-sensible content
[0024] Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the input to the mobile communicator of
information identifying the user-sensible content which is
synchronized with the user non-sensible content is effected
automatically in response to a user capture command.
[0025] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the user capture functionality involves input to
the mobile communicator of information identifying the
user-sensible content which is synchronized with the user
non-sensible content
[0026] Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the input to the mobile communicator of
information identifying the user-sensible content which is
synchronized with the user non-sensible content is effected
automatically in response to a user capture command.
[0027] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the step of enabling the user to capture selected
user non-sensible content, involves inputting to the mobile
communicator of information identifying the user-sensible content
which is synchronized with the user non-sensible content
[0028] Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the input to the mobile communicator of
information, identifying the user-sensible content which is
synchronized with the user non-sensible content, is effected
automatically in response to a user capture command.
[0029] Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the input to the mobile communicator of
information, identifying the user-sensible content which is
synchronized with the user non-sensible content, is effected in
response to a user capture command specifying a broadcast channel
along which the user is receiving the user sensible content. A time
indication enabling the user sensible content on the broadcast
channel to be unambiguously identified, is also provided
[0030] Preferably, the step of enabling the user to capture
selected user non-sensible content includes prompting a user to
make a selection, enabling a user to make an unprompted selection,
to make a selection orally, to make a selection by a manual
actuation and/or to preselect certain content based on user
determined criteria.
[0031] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the step of capturing selected user non-sensible
content includes capturing at least part of the content carried by
a sub-carrier, corresponding to the portion of the content selected
by the user.
[0032] Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the contact is a web site and/or a telephone
communicator.
[0033] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention, the method also includes providing communication
via at least one facilitator between a broadcast facility and at
least one of a product-specific communication facility and the non
product-specific communication facility.
[0034] Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the step of enabling includes providing
communication between a non product-specific communication facility
and at least one product specific communication facility.
Additionally or alternatively, the step of enabling includes
automatically providing product specific interactive communication
between the user via non product-specific communication facility
with at least one product specific communication facility.
[0035] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention, the method also includes radio broadcasting,
television broadcasting, FM broadcasting, satellite broadcasting
the content and/or broadcasting the content via Bluetooth
communication protocol.
[0036] Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the user capture functionality involves input
to the mobile communicator of information identifying the
user-sensible content.
[0037] Preferably, the input to the mobile communicator of
information identifying the user-sensible content is synchronized
automatically.
[0038] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the billboard facility is a stationary billboard
facility.
[0039] There is also provided in accordance with yet another
preferred embodiment of the present invention a method for
providing interaction between a multiplicity of users and at least
one communication facility. The method includes receiving non-user
sensible content at a mobile communicator, providing user viewable
content to a user in synchronization with provision of the user
non-sensible content to the mobile communicator, enabling a user to
capture selected user non-sensible content on the mobile
communicator in response to the user-sensible content received by
the user and providing interaction between the user and the at
least one communication facility based on the user non-sensible
content.
[0040] There is further provided in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the present invention a method for providing
interaction between a multiplicity of users and at least one
communication facility. The method includes receiving non-user
sensible content at a mobile communicator, broadcasting
user-sensible content to the mobile communicator in synchronization
with provision of the user non-sensible content to the mobile
communicator, enabling a user to capture selected user non-sensible
content on the mobile communicator in response to the user-sensible
content received by the user via the mobile communicator and
providing interaction between the user and the at least one
communication facility based on the user non-sensible content.
[0041] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention, the step of enabling a user to capture selected
user non-sensible content includes enabling the user to capture
involves input to the mobile communicator of information
identifying the user-sensible content.
[0042] Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention, the input to the mobile communicator of
information identifying the user-sensible content is synchronized
automatically.
[0043] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention, the method also includes inputting to the mobile
communicator of information identifying the user-sensible
content.
[0044] Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention, the input to the mobile communicator of
information identifying the user-sensible content is synchronized
automatically. Alternatively, the input to the mobile communicator
of information identifying the user-sensible content, which is
synchronized with the user non-sensible content, is effected
automatically in response to a user capture command.
[0045] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention, the input to the mobile communicator of
information identifying the user-sensible content which is
synchronized with the user non-sensible content is effected in
response to a user capture command specifying a broadcast channel
along which the user is receiving the user sensible content and
providing a time indication enabling the user sensible content on
the broadcast channel to be unambiguously identified.
[0046] Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention, the method also includes inputting to the
mobile communicator of information identifying the user-sensible
content which is synchronized with the user non-sensible
content
[0047] There is also provided in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the present invention a system for communicating with
a user. The system includes a wireless broadcasting facility
operative to provide content to a multiplicity of users and which
includes at least some non-audio product-specific content, a user
operable content selection functionality, a content capture
functionality, responsive to a selection by the user to capture at
least part of the non-audio content, corresponding to the portion
of the content selected by the user and a product-specific contact
access functionality, employing at least part of the captured
content to access a contact via a non-product specific
communication facility.
[0048] There is further provided in accordance with another
preferred embodiment of the present invention a system for
communicating with a user. The system includes a wireless
broadcasting facility operative to provide content to a
multiplicity of users, a user operable content selection
functionality, a content capture functionality, responsive to a
selection by the user to capture at least part of the content based
on predetermined criteria, a contact access functionality,
employing at least part of the captured content to access a contact
and a facilitator operative to functionally interconnect the
wireless broadcasting facility and the contact access
functionality.
[0049] There is provided in accordance with yet another preferred
embodiment of the present invention a system for providing
interaction between a multiplicity of users and at least one
communication facility. The system includes a mobile communicator
operative to receive non-user sensible content, at least one
synchronized broadcast facility operative to broadcast
user-sensible content to a first user receiver in synchronization
with provision of the user non-sensible content to the mobile
communicator, user capture functionality enabling a user to capture
selected user non-sensible content on the mobile communicator in
response to the user-sensible content received by the user via the
first receiver and user actuable access functionality providing
interaction between the user and the at least one communication
facility based on the user non-sensible content.
[0050] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the contact access functionality includes a user
actuation interface. Preferably, the contact access functionality
includes a mobile communicator employed by the user for
automatically establishing product-specific contact using at least
some of the content. Additionally, the content includes non-audible
content.
[0051] Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention, the content includes non-audible and
non-visible content. Preferably, the non-audible content is not
visible on a receiver of the content directly from the broadcast
facility.
[0052] Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the contact access functionality operates
automatically.
[0053] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the radio broadcasting facility includes an FM
broadcasting facility.
[0054] Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the user operable content selection
functionality includes prompting functionality for prompting a user
to make a selection.
[0055] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the user operable content selection functionality
includes user selection functionality enabling a user to make an
unprompted selection, to make a selection orally and/or to make a
selection by a manual actuation.
[0056] Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the user operable content selection
functionality includes preselection functionality enabling a user
to preselect certain content based on user determined criteria.
[0057] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the content capture functionality includes
sub-carrier content capture functionality operative to capture at
least part of the content carried by the sub-carrier, corresponding
to the portion of the content selected by the user.
[0058] Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the user operable content selection
functionality includes manually activated user selection
functionality enabling a user to make a selection by a manual
actuation and/or preselection functionality enabling a user to
preselect certain content based on user determined criteria.
[0059] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the content capture functionality includes
sub-carrier content capture functionality operative to capture at
least part of the content carried by the sub-carrier, corresponding
to the portion of the content selected by the user.
[0060] Preferably, the contact is a web site, a telephone
communicator, a radio broadcasting facility, a television
broadcasting facility, a Bluetooth broadcasting facility, an FM
broadcasting facility and/or a satellite broadcasting facility.
[0061] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the facilitator also is functionally
interconnected with an advertising content administrator.
Additionally, the facilitator also provides financial clearinghouse
functionality to at least the wireless broadcasting facility and
the contact access functionality.
[0062] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the contact access functionality includes at
least one non-product specific communication facility and a
plurality of product specific communication facilities.
[0063] Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the contact access functionality includes a
mobile communicator employed by the user for automatically
establishing product-specific contact using at least some of the
content. Preferably, the contact access functionality includes a
user actuation interface.
[0064] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the user operable content pre-selection
functionality includes voice activated user selection functionality
enabling a user to make a selection orally. Preferably, the user
operable content selection functionality includes manually
activated user selection functionality enabling a user to make a
selection by a manual actuation.
[0065] There is also provided in accordance with another preferred
embodiment of the present invention a system for communicating with
a user including a wireless broadcasting facility operative to
provide content to a multiplicity of users, which content is
inaudible and is not visible to the users without user actuation, a
user operable content selection functionality, a content capture
functionality, responsive to a selection by the user to capture at
least part of the content and contact access functionality,
employing at least part of the content captured by the user to
automatically access a contact in response to user actuation.
[0066] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the contact access functionality provides
automatic product-specific contact access using at least part of
the content captured by the user.
[0067] Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the wireless broadcasting facility includes a
Bluetooth facility.
[0068] Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the radio broadcasting facility includes an
FM broadcasting facility.
[0069] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention, the system includes user operable content
pre-selection functionality including voice activated user
selection functionality enabling a user to make a selection orally
and/or to make a selection by a manual actuation. The user operable
content selection functionality also includes a preselection
functionality enabling a user to preselect certain content based on
user determined criteria.
[0070] Preferably, the content capture functionality includes
sub-carrier content capture functionality operative to capture at
least part of the content carried by the sub-carrier, corresponding
to the portion of the content pre-selected by the user.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0071] The present invention will be understood and appreciated
more fully from the following detailed description, taken in
conjunction with the drawings in which:
[0072] FIG. 1 is a simplified pictorial illustration of a system
and methodology for communicating with a user in accordance with a
preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[0073] FIG. 2 is a simplified pictorial illustration of a system
and methodology for communicating with a user in accordance with
another preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[0074] FIG. 3 is a simplified pictorial illustration of a system
and methodology for communicating with a user in accordance with a
yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[0075] FIG. 4 is a simplified pictorial illustration of a system
and methodology for communicating with a user in accordance with a
still another preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[0076] FIG. 5 is a simplified pictorial illustration of a system
and methodology for communicating with a user in accordance with a
further preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[0077] FIG. 6 is a simplified pictorial illustration of a system
and methodology for communicating with a user in accordance with a
further preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[0078] FIG. 7 is a simplified pictorial illustration of a system
and methodology for communicating with a user in accordance with a
further preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[0079] FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E & 8F are simplified functional
block diagrams of six alternative embodiments of the system of FIG.
1;
[0080] FIGS. 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, 9E & 9F are simplified functional
block diagrams of a preferred embodiment of the system of FIG.
2;
[0081] FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E and 10F are simplified
functional block diagrams of a preferred embodiment of the system
of FIG. 3;
[0082] FIGS. 11A and 11B are simplified functional block diagrams
of a preferred embodiment of the system of FIG. 4;
[0083] FIGS. 12A and 12B are simplified functional block diagrams
of a preferred embodiment of the system of FIG. 5;
[0084] FIGS. 13A and 13B are simplified functional block diagrams
of a preferred embodiment of the system of FIG. 6;
[0085] FIG. 14 is a simplified functional block diagram of a
preferred embodiment of the system of FIG. 7;
[0086] FIGS. 15A-15E are simplified illustrations of typical data
sets employed in the embodiment of FIG. 1;
[0087] FIGS. 16A-16E are simplified illustrations of typical data
sets employed in the embodiment of FIG. 2;
[0088] FIGS. 17A-17E are simplified illustrations of typical data
sets employed in the embodiment of FIG. 3;
[0089] FIGS. 18A-18E are simplified illustrations of typical data
sets employed in the embodiment of FIG. 4;
[0090] FIGS. 19A-19E are simplified illustrations of typical data
sets employed in the embodiment of FIG. 5;
[0091] FIGS. 20A-20E are simplified illustrations of typical data
sets employed in the embodiment of FIG. 6;
[0092] FIGS. 21A-21E are simplified illustrations of typical data
sets employed in the embodiment of FIG. 7;
[0093] FIG. 22 is a simplified flowchart of a first part of the
functionality common to FIGS. 1-7;
[0094] FIG. 23 is a simplified flowchart of a second part of the
functionality common to FIGS. 1-6;
[0095] FIG. 24 is a simplified flowchart of a third part of the
functionality common to FIGS. 1-6;
[0096] FIG. 25 is a simplified flowchart illustrating certain
features shown in FIG. 22;
[0097] FIG. 26 is a simplified flowchart illustrating certain
features shown in FIG. 23;
[0098] FIG. 27 is a simplified flowchart illustrating certain
features shown in FIG. 24;
[0099] FIG. 28 is a simplified functional block diagram
illustrating certain features shown in FIG. 24.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0100] Reference is now made to FIG. 1, which is a simplified
pictorial illustration of a methodology and system for accessing
information using both non-product specific information and
product-specific information received wirelessly by a user in
accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. As
seen in FIG. 1, there is provided a system and methodology wherein
a message, here a commercial message, is broadcast, typically by a
radio broadcast facility, such as an FM broadcast facility. Non
product-specific information is to be understood as information
which is not necessarily applicable to accessing a given product or
service, while product-specific information is to be understood as
information which is applicable to accessing a given product or
service. It is appreciated that the product-specific information
may have any suitable level of specificity, i.e. it can refer to a
single product or service or to a class of products and services as
appropriate.
[0101] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, the radio broadcast
facility, represented by an antenna tower designated by reference
numeral 100, is a FM broadcast facility having subcarrier broadcast
functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS or a DARC protocol.
Alternatively or additionally the radio broadcast facility may be a
digital radio broadcast facility. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the
broadcast message includes an audible audio content portion,
designated by reference numeral 102, which says "FREE MINERAL
WATER--BUY NOW!!" and an inaudible non-audio content portion,
designated by reference numeral 104, which contains at least the
following information: "RADIO NY FREE WATER WWW.PORTAL.COM
1-800-864-2222 WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM 1-800-WATER4U". The inaudible
non-audio content portion 104 is preferably a subcarrier content
portion when the radio broadcast facility is an FM broadcast
facility having a subcarrier broadcast functionality.
[0102] In this embodiment it is seen that both non-product specific
information, for example a telephone number such as
"1-800-864-2222" or a web address such as "WWW.PORTAL.COM" and
product-specific information, for example "1-800-WATER4U" or the
product-specific web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM" are provided in
the inaudible non-audio content portion 104.
[0103] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
radio 106 in a vehicle 108. The audible audio content portion 102
may be heard by a user in the vehicle 108, via a speaker 110 while
the inaudible non-audio content portion 104 is not heard.
[0104] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 100 and received by radio 106 appears in FIG. 15A as
described herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0105] It is noted that at least part of the inaudible non-audio
content portion 104 is not only not heard but is also not visible
to the user on a radio display, so as to prevent possible
distraction of the user.
[0106] It is further noted that avoidance of display of at least
part of the content portion 104 on a radio display is an important
safety feature of the present invention and distinguishes the
inaudible non-audio content portion 104 from conventional
subcarrier messages, such as commercial RDS messages, which are
conventionally displayed on radio displays.
[0107] Thus, it is seen that only the legend "RADIO NY" is
displayed on the radio display, designated by reference numeral
112. This message typically continues to be displayed as long as
the radio is tuned to Radio NY and thus is considered not to be
distracting.
[0108] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 100, indicating that portion displayed by display 112 of
radio 106 appears in FIG. 15B as described herein below with
reference to FIG. 25.
[0109] In response to hearing the audio content portion, "FREE
MINERAL WATER--BUY NOW!!", the user may issue a command, typically
orally, such as "CAPTURE". This command, in accordance with a
preferred embodiment of the present invention, is received by
either the radio 106 or by a mobile communicator 114, such as a
mobile telephone or a suitable equipped personal digital
assistant.
[0110] In response to receipt of the "CAPTURE" command, at least
some, if not all of the information contained in the inaudible
non-audio content portion 104 is supplied from radio 106 to the
mobile communicator 114, as indicated symbolically at reference
numeral 116. In FIG. 1, for example, only the product-specific web
address part of content portion 104 is shown as being supplied, it
being understood that any other part of content portion 104 may be
alternatively or additionally supplied. A mobile communicator
display 117 can list subject titles of other such capture events
captured in a similar manner as described herein. Thus, capture
event #1 concerns a news item, capture event #2 concerns a book,
and capture event #3 concerns water. Further information contained
in the inaudible non-audio content portion 104 and pertaining to
the captured event may be displayed on alternative menus on the
mobile communicator display 117 as shown in FIG. 1
[0111] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion 104 transmitted by broadcast
facility 100, indicating those portions displayed by display 114 of
mobile communicator 117 appears in FIG. 15C as described herein
below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0112] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, the user may at any
time thereafter actuate the mobile communicator 114 by issuing a
command, typically orally, such as "CONTACT". In response to
receipt of the "CONTACT" command the mobile communicator 114 can
establish contact on the basis of part or all of the content
contained in the inaudible non-audio content portion 104.
[0113] FIG. 1 shows an example, wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 114, typically embodied as a web-enabled wireless
personal digital assistant, by issuing a command, typically orally,
such as "CONTACT" to access a destination web site identified by
the product-specific web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM" which forms
part of the product-specific information of content portion 104 and
is designated in FIG. 1 by the server 118.
[0114] In the illustrated embodiment, this product-specific access
is achieved via a non product-specific portal, embodied in a non
product-specific server 119, which is accessed via the Internet by
use of a non product-specific web address, such as WWW.PORTAL.COM,
which forms part of the non product-specific information of content
portion 104. Alternatively, the non product-specific web address
need not be broadcast and can be stored in the mobile communicator
114, such as by means of a cookie.
[0115] A typical data set representing the contents of a
communication sent by the mobile communicator 114 and received by a
non product-specific server 119 appears in FIG. 15D as described
herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0116] Once the user has accessed the product-specific web site
identified by the product-specific web address WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM
at the product-specific destination server 118, the user may obtain
information or, as shown in FIG. 1 enter into any appropriate
commercial transaction, such as one which results in water being
delivered to the residence of the user, as described
hereinbelow.
[0117] Alternatively, where the mobile communicator 114 has
cellular telephone capabilities the user, upon issuing a command,
typically orally, such as "CONTACT" to access a product-specific
telephone center 120 identified by the product-specific telephone
number 1-800-WATER4U which forms part of the product-specific
information of contact portion 104. In the illustrated embodiment,
this access is achieved via a non-product-specific telephone center
124 by use of a non product-specific telephone number, such as
"1-800-864-2222" which forms part of the non product-specific
information of content portion 104. Alternatively the non
product-specific telephone center number need not be broadcast and
can be stored in the mobile communicator 114, by means such as a
cookie or SMS.
[0118] A feature of the mobile communicator 114 may be an
associated GPS locator (not shown). The geographical location
coordinates from the GPS locator (not shown) may be transmitted
from the mobile communicator 114 to the non product-specific server
119 and used in such a manner that thereby facilitates the
appropriate commercial transaction. Such facilatation may include
directing the user to the nearest product-specific facility, or
enable the non product-specific server 119 to notify a
product-specific facility of the whereabouts of a user.
[0119] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, a database 126 may be provided which may receive all or
part of a data set containing content portion 127 from the non
product-specific server 1198 via a computer network communication,
as from a computer 128, associated with the broadcast facility 100.
This database 126 is preferably coupled to the non product-specific
server 119 so as to collect and correlate user information,
including cellular location information supplied by the cellular
operators, and activities in connection with given content portions
104, in order to enable suitable payments to be made among the
various parties to the activities illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0120] A typical data set representing the contents of the
communication from the non product-specific server 119 indicating
those portions stored in database 126 appears in FIG. 15E as
described herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0121] It is appreciated that the non product-specific telephone
center 124 or other user contact interface may be provided
alternatively or in addition to server 119 and may thus be coupled
to database 126. Typically the server 119, the telephone center 124
and the database 126 are provided by a non-product specific
communication facility 130.
[0122] Reference is now made to FIG. 2, which is a simplified
pictorial illustration of a methodology and system for accessing
information using both non-product specific information and
product-specific information received wirelessly by a user in
accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present
invention. As seen in FIG. 2, there is provided a system and
methodology wherein a message, here a commercial message, is
broadcast, typically by a radio broadcast facility, such as an FM
broadcast facility. Non product-specific information is to be
understood as information which is not necessarily applicable to
accessing a given product or service, while product specific
information is to be understood as information which is applicable
to accessing a given product or service.
[0123] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2, the radio broadcast
facility, represented by an antenna tower designated by reference
numeral 200, is a FM broadcast facility having subcarrier broadcast
functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS or a DARC protocol.
Alternatively or additionally the radio broadcast facility may be a
digital radio broadcast facility. {Fill in}. As illustrated in FIG.
2, the broadcast message includes an audible audio content portion,
designated by reference numeral 202, which says "FREE MINERAL
WATER--BUY NOW!!" and an inaudible non-audio content portion,
designated by reference numeral 204, which contains at least the
following information: "RADIO NY WATER #1234#". The inaudible
non-audio content portion 204 is preferably a subcarrier content
portion when the radio broadcast facility is an FM broadcast
facility having a subcarrier broadcast functionality. In contrast
to inaudible non-audio content portion 104 (FIG. 1), portion 204
does not contain non product-specific information, such as
telephone numbers or web addresses but rather contains a
product-specific code which may be read by one or more downstream
devices, as will be described hereinbelow, to provide the required
contact addresses or functional equivalents thereof.
[0124] As in the embodiment of FIG. 1, the broadcast message may be
received, for example, by a radio 206 in a vehicle 207. The audible
audio content portion 202 may be heard by a user in the vehicle
207, via a speaker 208 while the inaudible non-audio content
portion 204 is not heard.
[0125] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 200 and received by radio 206 appears in FIG. 16A as
described herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0126] As in the embodiment of FIG. 1, it is noted that at least
part of the inaudible non-audio content portion 204 is not only not
heard but is also not visible to the user on a radio display, so as
to prevent possible distraction of the user.
[0127] It is further noted that avoidance of display of at least
part of the content portion 204 on a radio display is an important
safety feature of the present invention and distinguishes the
inaudible non-audio content portion 204 from conventional
subcarrier messages, such as commercial RDS messages, which are
conventionally displayed in their on radio displays.
[0128] Thus, it is seen that only the legend "RADIO NY" is
displayed on the radio display, designated by reference numeral
209. This message typically continues to be displayed as long as
the radio is tuned to Radio NY and thus is considered not to be
distracting.
[0129] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 200, indicating that portion displayed by display 209 of
radio 206 appears in FIG. 16B as described herein below with
reference to FIG. 25.
[0130] Concurrent, or any time previous, with the broadcasting of
the broadcast message, full product-specific information 210 and,
but not necessarily, other information pertaining to the broadcast
message corresponding to the code contained in portion 204 can be
transmitted via a computer network communication, as from a
computer 212, associated with the broadcast facility 200 to a
database 211 via a portal server 213.
[0131] In response to hearing the audio content portion, "FREE
MINERAL WATER--BUY NOW!!", the user may issue a command, typically
orally, such as "CAPTURE". This command, in accordance with a
preferred embodiment of the present invention, is received by
either the radio 206 or by a mobile communicator 214, such as a
mobile telephone or a suitable equipped personal digital assistant.
In response to receipt of the "CAPTURE" command, the code contained
in the inaudible non-audio content portion 204 is supplied from
radio 206 to the mobile communicator 214, as indicated symbolically
at reference numeral 215.
[0132] A mobile communicator display 216 can list subject titles of
other such capture events captured in a similar manner as described
herein. Thus capture event #1 concerns a news item, capture event
#2 concerns a book, and capture event #3 concerns water. Further
information contained in the inaudible non-audio content portion
204 and pertaining to the captured event may be displayed on
alternative menus on the mobile communicator display 216 as shown
in FIG. 2
[0133] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 200, indicating those portions displayed by display 216 of
mobile communicator 214 appears in FIG. 16C as described herein
below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0134] In the illustrated embodiment, FIG. 2, the user may at any
time thereafter actuate the mobile communicator 214 by issuing a
command, typically orally, such as "CONTACT". In response to
receipt of the "CONTACT" command the mobile communicator 214 can
establish contact on the basis of the code contained in the
inaudible non-audio content portion 204. FIG. 2 shows an example
wherein a user actuates the mobile communicator 214, typically
embodied as a web-enabled wireless personal digital assistant, by
issuing a command, typically orally, such as "CONTACT" to access a
destination web site identified by the product-specific web address
WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM, which forms part of the product-specific
information 210, and is designated in FIG. 2 by the server 213. In
the illustrated embodiment, this access is achieved via a portal,
embodied in the portal server 213, which is accessed via the
Internet by use of a non specific-product non product-specific web
address, such as "WWW.PORTAL.COM".
[0135] FIG. 2 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 214, typically embodied as a web-enabled wireless
personal digital assistant, to access a portal, embodied in the
portal server 213, via the Internet by use of non product-specific
information, namely a non product-specific web address, such as
"WWW.PORTAL.COM". The non product-specific web address need not be
broadcast and is typically stored in the mobile communicator 214,
such as by means of a cookie. Alternatively, the non
product-specific web address may be broadcast as part of inaudible
non-audible content portion 204 or otherwise.
[0136] Once the user has accessed the portal server 213, the portal
server 213 transmits the product-specific information code embodied
in inaudible non-audible portion 204 to the database 211, which
decodes the code and provides to portal server 213 the
product-specific information 210 and any further details of the
broadcast communication as received from the broadcast facility 200
via the computer 212. All or part of this information can be
received by the mobile communicator 214 and displayed on
alternative menus on the mobile communicator display 216 as shown
in FIG. 2. Upon request by the user the server 213, identified by
non-product specific address www.portal.com, may access the
product-specific web-address, such as "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", of a
web-site identified by the code. The server 213 accesses the web
site so identified by employing the web-address. Alternatively the
mobile communicator may access the product-specific web-address,
such as WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM, directly.
[0137] Once the user has accessed the web site identified by the
product-specific web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may
obtain information pertaining to the captured event or, as further
shown in FIG. 2 enter into any appropriate commercial transaction,
such as one which results in water being delivered to the residence
of the user.
[0138] A feature of the mobile communicator 214 may be an
associated GPS locator (not shown). The geographical location
coordinates from the GPS locator (not shown) may be transmitted
from the mobile communicator 214 to the non product-specific server
213 and used in such a manner that thereby enhances the appropriate
commercial transaction. Such enhancement may include directing the
user to the nearest product-specific facility, or enable the non
product-specific server 213 to notify a product-specific facility
of the whereabouts of a user.
[0139] Alternatively, where the mobile communicator 214 has
cellular telephone capabilities the user, upon issuing a command,
typically orally, such as "CONTACT" to access a product-specific
telephone destination center 230 identified by the product-specific
telephone number 1-800-WATER4U which forms part of the
product-specific information 210. In the illustrated embodiment,
this access is achieved via the non product-specific telephone
center 224 by use of a non product-specific telephone number, such
as "1-800-864-2222". The non product-specific telephone center
number need not be broadcast and can be stored in the mobile
communicator 214, by means such as a cookie or SMS.
[0140] A typical data set representing the contents of a
communication sent by the mobile communicator 214 and received by a
non product-specific server 213 appears in FIG. 16D as described
herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0141] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 211 may receive full contact information
corresponding to the code contained in portion 204 via a computer
network communication, as from a computer 212, associated with the
broadcast facility 200. As in the embodiment of FIG. 1, this
database 212 is preferably coupled to the non product-specific
portal server 213 so as to collect and correlate user information,
including cellular location information supplied by the cellular
operators, and activities in connection with given content portions
204, in order to enable suitable payments to be made among the
various parties to the activities illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0142] A typical data set representing the contents of the
communication from the non product-specific server 213, indicating
those portions stored in database 211 appears in FIG. 16E as
described herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0143] It is appreciated that the non product-specific telephone
center 224 or other user contact interface may be provided
alternatively or in addition to server 218 and may thus be coupled
to database 220. Typically the portal server 218, the non
product-specific telephone center 224 and the database 212 are
provided by a non-product specific communication facility 226.
[0144] In the embodiment of FIG. 2, access to the telephone center
224 may be via a telephone number stored in mobile communicator 214
and communication of the code in content portion 204 provides
information to an operator in the telephone center in order to
enable the operator to deal with user requests.
[0145] Reference is now made to FIG. 3, which is a simplified
pictorial illustration of a methodology and system for accessing
information using both non-product specific information and
product-specific information received wirelessly by a user in
accordance with yet another preferred embodiment of the present
invention. As seen in embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 & 2,
there is provided a system and methodology wherein a message, here
a commercial message, is broadcast, typically by a radio broadcast
facility, such as an FM broadcast facility. Non product-specific
information is to be understood as information which is not
necessarily applicable to accessing a given product or service,
while product-specific information is to be understood as
information which is applicable to accessing a given product or
service.
[0146] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 3, the radio broadcast
facility, represented by an antenna tower designated by reference
numeral 300, is a FM broadcast facility having subcarrier broadcast
functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS or a DARC protocol.
Alternatively or additionally the radio broadcast facility may be a
digital radio broadcast facility. "BU99FM", Israel. As illustrated
in FIG. 3, the broadcast message includes an audible audio content
portion, designated by reference numeral 302, which says "FREE
MINERAL WATER--BUY NOW!!" and an inaudible non-audio content
portion, designated by reference numeral 304, which contains at
least the following information: "RADIO NY FREE WATER
1-800-864-2222 #1234#". The inaudible non-audio content portion 304
is preferably a subcarrier content portion when the radio broadcast
facility is an FM broadcast facility having a subcarrier broadcast
functionality. In contrast to inaudible non-audio content portion
204 (FIG. 2), portion 304 does contain non product-specific
information, such as a telephone numbers, and, in contrast to
inaudible non-audible content portion 104 (FIG. 1), portion 304
does not contain explicit product-specific address but rather
contains a product-specific code which may be read by one or more
downstream devices, as will be described hereinbelow, to provide
the required product-specific contact addresses or functional
equivalents thereof.
[0147] As in the embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2, broadcast message
may be received, for example, by a radio 306 in a vehicle 308. The
audible audio content portion 302 may be heard by a user in the
vehicle 308, via a speaker 309 while the inaudible non-audio
content portion 304 is not heard.
[0148] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 300 and received by radio 306 appears in FIG. 17A as
described herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0149] As in the embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2, it is noted that at
least part of the inaudible non-audio content portion 304 is not
only not heard but is also not visible to the user on a radio
display, so as to prevent possible distraction of the user.
[0150] It is further noted that avoidance of display of at least
part of the content portion 304 on a radio display 312 is an
important safety feature of the present invention and distinguishes
the inaudible non-audio content portion 304 from conventional
subcarrier messages, such as commercial RDS messages, which are
conventionally displayed in their on radio displays.
[0151] Thus, it is seen that only the legend "RADIO NY" is
displayed on the radio display, designated by reference numeral
312. This message typically continues to be displayed as long as
the radio is tuned to Radio NY and thus is considered not to be
distracting.
[0152] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 300, indicating that portion displayed by display 310 of
radio 306 appears in FIG. 17B as described herein below with
reference to FIG. 25.
[0153] Concurrent, or any time previous, with the broadcasting of
the broadcast message, full product-specific information 311 and,
but not necessarily, other information pertaining to the broadcast
message corresponding to the product-specific code contained in
portion 304 can be transmitted via a computer network
communication, as from a computer 312, associated with the
broadcast facility 300 to a database 313 via a server 318.
[0154] In response to hearing the audio content portion, "FREE
MINERAL WATER--BUY NOW!!", the user may issue a command, typically
orally, such as "CAPTURE". This command, in accordance with a
preferred embodiment of the present invention, is received by
either the radio 306 or by a mobile communicator 315, here
preferably a mobile telephone. In response to receipt of the
"CAPTURE" command, the non product-specific telephone number and
the product-specific code contained in the inaudible non-audio
content portion 304 is supplied from radio 306 to the mobile
communicator 315, as indicated symbolically at reference numeral
316.
[0155] A mobile communicator display 317 can list information
pertaining to such capture events captured in a manner as described
herein. Thus, the capture event "WATER" or any other information
relating to the audio content portion 302 may be displayed on the
mobile communicator display 317 as shown in FIG. 3.
[0156] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion as transmitted by broadcast
facility 300, indicating those portions displayed by display 317 of
mobile communicator 315 appears in FIG. 17C as described herein
below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0157] In the illustrated embodiment, FIG. 3, the user may at any
time thereafter actuate the mobile communicator 315 by issuing a
command, typically orally, such as "CONTACT". In response to
receipt of the "CONTACT" command the mobile communicator 315 can
establish contact on the basis of part or all of the content
contained in the inaudible non-audio content portion 304. FIG. 3
shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile communicator
315, typically embodied as a mobile telephone, by issuing a
command, typically orally, such as "CONTACT" to contact a
product-specific telephone destination by dialing the non
product-specific telephone number contained in portion 304, such as
1-800-864-2222, and shown on the mobile telephone display 317, and
followed by the product-specific code, such as #1234#, and which is
not typically shown on the mobile telephone display 317. The non
product-specific telephone center 324 may access a non
product-specific portal, embodied in the server 318, via the
Internet by use of a non product-specific web address, such as
"WWW.PORTAL.COM".
[0158] A typical data set representing the contents of a
communication sent by the mobile communicator 315 and received by a
non product-specific server 314 appears in FIG. 17D as described
herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0159] Once the non product-specific telephone center 326 has
accessed the non product-specific server 318, the non
product-specific server 318 transmits the product-specific code
embodied in portion 304 to the database 313, which decodes the
product-specific code and provides the non product-specific
telephone center 324 a product-specific forwarding telephone
number, such as 1-800-WATER4U. It is appreciated that the
product-specific forwarding telephone number may access a vocal
portal providing access to the Internet for telephone users.
[0160] Once the user has accessed the product-specific telephone
number identified by 1-800-WATER4U, the user may obtain information
or, as shown in FIG. 3, enter into any appropriate commercial
transaction, such as one which results in water being delivered to
the residence of the user.
[0161] As in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, the database 313 is
preferably coupled to the non product-specific server 318 so as to
collect and correlate user information, including database 313 is
also operative to collect and correlate user information, including
cellular location information supplied by the cellular operators,
and activities in connection with given content portions 304, in
order to enable suitable payments to be made among the various
parties to the activities illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0162] A typical data set representing the contents of the
communication from the non product-specific server 314, indicating
those portions stored in database 313 appears in FIG. 17E as
described herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0163] It is appreciated that the non product-specific telephone
center 324 or other user contact interface may be provided
alternatively or in addition to server 318 and may thus be coupled
to database 313. Typically the non product-specific server 318, the
non product-specific telephone center 324 and the database 313 are
provided by a non-product specific communication facility 326.
[0164] Reference is now made to FIG. 4, which is a simplified
pictorial illustration of a methodology and system for accessing
information using both non-product specific information and
product-specific information received wirelessly by a user in
accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present
invention. As seen in FIG. 4, there is provided a system and
methodology wherein a message, here a commercial message, is
broadcast, typically by a relatively short range digital broadcast
facility, such as a Bluetooth broadcast facility. Non
product-specific information is to be understood as information
which is not necessarily applicable to accessing a given product or
service, while product specific information is to be understood as
information which is applicable to accessing a given product or
service.
[0165] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4, the short range
digital radio broadcast facility, represented by an antenna 400
associated with a billboard 401, is a Bluetooth broadcast facility
broadcasting to a vehicle 402 containing at least one
Bluetooth-enabled communicator. For the purposes of this invention
a "billboard" is any public visual advertising platform such as
electronic or printed fixed position banners, or electronic or
printed vehicle-mounted banners.
[0166] As illustrated in FIG. 4 the broadcast message, includes an
audible audio content portion, designated by reference numeral 403,
which says "FREE MINERAL WATER--BUY NOW!!" and an inaudible
non-audio content portion, designated by reference numeral 404,
which contains non product-specific information such as: "WATER
WWW.PORTAL.COM 1-800-864-222" and coded product-specific
information, such as #1234#". As in the inaudible non-audio content
portion 104 (FIG. 1) portion 404 contains both product-specific
information and non product-specific information however in
contrast to inaudible non-audio content portion 104 (FIG. 1),
portion 404 does not contain product-specific contact addresses,
such as telephone numbers or web addresses, but rather contains a
product-specific code which may be read by one or more downstream
devices, as will be described hereinbelow, to provide the required
product-specific contact addresses or functional equivalents
thereof. It is appreciated that the product-specific information
may have any suitable level of specificity, i.e. it can refer to a
single product or service or to a class of products and services as
appropriate.
[0167] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 400 appears in FIG. 18A as described herein below with
reference to FIG. 25.
[0168] As distinct from the embodiments of FIGS. 1-3, the digital
broadcast message may be received by a Bluetooth receiver forming
part of any suitable device, such as, for example, a suitable
configured radio 410 in a vehicle 402 or a suitably configured
mobile communicator 405.
[0169] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 400 and received by mobile communicator 405 appears in
FIG. 18B as described herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0170] Concurrent, or any time previous, with the broadcasting of
the digital broadcast message, full contact information 406 and,
but not necessarily, other information pertaining to the broadcast
message, such as a location identify for the digital transmitter
facility 400, corresponding to the product-specific code contained
in portion 404 can be transmitted via a computer network
communication, as from a computer 407, associated with the
broadcast facility 400 to a database 408 via a server 409.
[0171] In response to seeing the billboard 401 bearing the legend,
"FREE MINERAL WATER--BUY NOW!!", or hearing the digitized audio
portion 403 via the speaker (not shown) of the mobile communicator
405 or the car radio speaker 411 of car radio 410, by means of a
short range communication protocol, such as Bluetooth, the user may
issue a command, typically orally, such as "CAPTURE". This command,
in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention,
is received by the mobile communicator 405, such as a suitably
equipped mobile telephone or a suitable equipped personal digital
assistant. In response to receipt of the "CAPTURE" command, the
product-specific code contained in the inaudible non-audio content
portion 404 is supplied to a memory storage medium within the
mobile communicator 405. The mobile communicator display 412 can
list subject titles, obtained from the inaudible non-audio content
portion 404, of other such capture events captured in similar
manner as described herein. Thus, capture event #1 concerns a news
item, capture event #2 concerns a book, and capture event #3
concerns water.
[0172] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 400, indicating those portions displayed by display 412 of
mobile communicator 405 appears in FIG. 18C as described herein
below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0173] In the illustrated embodiment, the user may at any time
thereafter actuate the mobile communicator 405 to establish contact
on the basis of the code contained in the inaudible non-audio
content portion 404.
[0174] In the illustrated embodiment, FIG. 4, the user may at any
time thereafter actuate the mobile communicator 405 by issuing a
command, typically orally, such as "CONTACT". In response to
receipt of the "CONTACT" command the mobile communicator 405 can
establish contact on the basis of part or all of the content
contained in the inaudible non-audio content portion 404. FIG. 4
shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile communicator
405, typically embodied as a Bluetooth, web-enabled wireless
personal digital assistant, by issuing a command, typically orally,
such as "CONTACT" to access a product-specific web site identified
by the web address WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM.
[0175] FIG. 4 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 405, typically embodied as a Bluetooth, web-enabled
wireless personal digital assistant, to access a non
product-specific, embodied in the server 409, via the Internet by
use of a non product-specific web address, such as
"WWW.PORTAL.COM". The non product-specific web address may be
broadcast as part of content portion 404. Alternatively, the
non-product-specific web address need not be broadcast and can be
stored in the mobile communicator 405, such as by means of a
cookie.
[0176] A typical data set representing the contents of a
communication sent by the mobile communicator 405 and received by
the non product-specific server 409 appears in FIG. 18D as
described herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0177] Once the user has accessed the non product-specific portal
server 409, the non product-specific portal server 409 transmits
the product-specific code embodied in portion 406 to a database
408, which decodes the product specific code and provides to non
product-specific portal server 409 the full product-specific
contact information and any further details of the broadcast
communication, such as location of broadcast facility 400, as
received from the broadcast facility 400 via the computer 407. All
or part of this information can be received by the mobile
communicator 405 and displayed on alternative menus on a mobile
communicator display 412 as shown in FIG. 4.
[0178] Upon request by the user the server 409, identified by non
product-specific address www.PORTAL.COM, may access the
product-specific web-address, such as "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", of a
product-specific server web-site 430 identified by the
product-specific code. The server 409 accesses the web site so
identified by employing the web-address. Alternatively the mobile
communicator may access the product-specific web-address, such as
WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM, directly.
[0179] Once the user has accessed the product-specific server web
site identified 430 by the web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the
user may obtain information pertaining to the captured event or, as
further shown in FIG. 4 enter into any appropriate commercial
transaction, such as one which results in water being delivered to
the residence of the user.
[0180] Alternatively, where the mobile communicator 405 has
cellular telephone capabilities the user, upon issuing a command,
typically orally, such as "CONTACT" to access a product-specific
telephone destination center 432 identified by the product-specific
telephone number 1-800-WATER4U which forms part of the
product-specific information 406. In the illustrated embodiment,
this access is achieved via the non product-specific telephone
center 418 by use of a non product-specific telephone number, such
as "1-800-864-2222". The non product-specific telephone center
number need not be broadcast and can be stored in the mobile
communicator 405, by means such as a cookie or SMS.
[0181] A feature of the mobile communicator 405 may be an
associated GPS locator (not shown). The geographical location
coordinates from the GPS locator (not shown) may be transmitted
from the mobile communicator 405 to the non product-specific server
409 and used in such a manner that thereby enhances the appropriate
commercial transaction. Such enhancement may include directing the
user to the nearest product-specific facility, or enable the non
product-specific server 409 to notify a product-specific facility
of the whereabouts of a user.
[0182] As in the embodiment of FIG. 1, the database 408 is
preferably coupled to the non product-specific portal server 409 so
as to collect and correlate user information, including cellular
location information supplied by the cellular operators, and
activities in connection with given content portions 404, in order
to enable suitable payments to be made among the various parties to
the activities illustrated in FIG. 4.
[0183] A typical data set representing the contents of the
communication from the non product-specific server 409, indicating
those portions stored in database 408 appears in FIG. 18E as
described herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0184] It is appreciated that a non product-specific telephone
center 418 or other user contact interface may be provided
alternatively or in addition to non product-specific portal server
409 and may thus be coupled to database 408. In the embodiment of
FIG. 4, access to the non product-specific telephone center 418 may
be via a non product-specific telephone number contained in the
content portions 404 and communication of the product-specific code
in content portion 404 provides information to an operator in the
product-specific telephone center 432 having product-specific web
address in order to enable the operator to deal with user
requests.
[0185] It is appreciated that the non product-specific telephone
center 418 or other user contact interface may be provided
alternatively or in addition to server 409 and may thus be coupled
to database 408. Typically the portal server 409, the non
product-specific telephone center 418 and the database 408 are
provided by a non-product specific communication facility 434.
[0186] Reference is now made to FIG. 5, which is a simplified
pictorial illustration of methodology and system for accessing
information using contact information received wirelessly by a user
in accordance with a further preferred embodiment of the present
invention. As seen in FIG. 5, there is provided a system and
methodology wherein a message, here a commercial message, is
broadcast, typically by a radio broadcast facility, of such type as
including analogue or digital broadcast facilities.
[0187] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 5, the radio broadcast
facility, represented by an antenna tower designated by reference
numeral 500, is a broadcast facility of type including analogue or
digital broadcasting. As illustrated the broadcast message,
includes an audible audio content portion, designated by reference
numeral 502, which says "FREE MINERAL WATER--BUY NOW!!" and an
inaudible non-audio portion containing station identification
information, in this case "RADIO NY", that is typically transmitted
as subcarrier content. An inaudible non-audio data content portion,
designated by reference numeral 504, which contains at least the
following product-specific information: "FREE WATER 1-800-WATER4U
WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM" is concurrently provided to a server 506 via a
computer network communication, as from a computer 508, associated
with the broadcast facility 500.
[0188] The broadcast message 502 may be received, for example, by a
radio 510 in a vehicle 512. The audible audio content portion 502
may be heard by a user in the vehicle 512, via a speaker 514.
[0189] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 500 and received by radio 510 appears in FIG. 19A as
described herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0190] As distinct from the embodiments of FIGS. 1-4, no inaudible
non-audible product-specific or non product-specific content
portion such as 104 in FIG. 1 is broadcast by the broadcast
facility 500 as part of the broadcast message. Furthermore, no
communication of product-specific or non product-specific content
portion necessarily occurs between the radio 510 and the mobile
communicator 516.
[0191] The mobile communicator 516, present in the vehicle 512, and
with capabilities to be on-line-all-the-time such as gprs-enabled
communicator, such as Ericsson Mobile Phones R520 for GSM 900/1800
and GSM 1900, and third generation mobile communicators, is
accessed to the server 506 via the Internet by a non
product-specific web address, such as "www.portal.com". The non
product-specific server web address is typically stored in the
mobile communicator 516 such as by means of a cookie.
[0192] Alternatively, where the mobile communicator 516, in this
embodiment being a GPRS or 3G device, has digital radio reception
capabilities, the audible audio content portion 502 will be
received by the mobile communicator 516 and can be heard by the
user via a speaker (not shown) in the mobile communicator 516, or
alternatively by the speaker 514 where the communication between
the mobile communicator 516 and the speaker 514 is by means of
short range communication, such as Bluetooth.
[0193] The mobile communicator 516 is synchronized to the identical
station frequency as that of the car radio 510, for example as
shown "Radio NY", by inputting relevant data into the mobile
communicator 516 by automatic means or by manual means.
Synchronization of radio station frequencies may be indicated on
the radio display 517 and the mobile communicator display 518.
Thus, concurrent with the audible audio content portion 502 being
heard by a user via the speaker 514, a part of the inaudible
non-audio data content portion 504 is received by means of a
streaming data channel 519 to the mobile communicator 516 from the
server 506.
[0194] As in the previous embodiments FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, it is noted
that at least part of the inaudible non-audio content portion 504
is not only not heard but is also not visible to the user on a
radio display, so as to prevent possible distraction of the
user.
[0195] It is further noted that avoidance of display of at least
part of the content portion 504 on a display is an important safety
feature of the present invention and distinguishes the inaudible
non-audio content portion 504 from conventional subcarrier
messages, such as commercial RDS messages, which are conventionally
displayed in their on radio displays.
[0196] Thus, it is seen that only the legend "RADIO NY" is
displayed on the radio display 517. This message typically
continues to be displayed as long as the radio is tuned to Radio NY
and thus is considered not to be distracting.
[0197] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 500, indicating that portion displayed by display 517 of
radio 510 appears in FIG. 19B as described herein below with
reference to FIG. 25.
[0198] In response to hearing the audio content portion, "FREE
MINERAL WATER--BUY NOW!!", the user may issue a command, typically
orally, such as "CAPTURE". This command, in accordance with a
preferred embodiment of the present invention, is received by the
mobile communicator 516, such as a gprs-enabled mobile telephone or
any other suitably equipped 3G personal digital assistant. In
response to receipt of the "CAPTURE" command, at least some, if not
all of the information contained in the inaudible non-audio data
content portion 504 is transferred from streaming-data mode,
represented by the communication arrow 519, between the database
520, the server 506 and the mobile communicator 516 to a storage
medium within the mobile communicator 516. Part of the stored
inaudible non-audio data content portion is shown on the mobile
communicator display 518. For example, the mobile communicator
display 518 can list subject titles of other such capture events
captured in a similar manner as described herein. Thus, capture
event #1 concerns a news item, capture event #2 concerns a book,
and capture event #3 concerns water. Further information contained
in the inaudible non-audio content portion 504 and pertaining to
the captured event may be displayed on alternative menus on the
mobile communicator display 518 as shown in FIG. 5.
[0199] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 500, indicating those portions displayed by display 518 of
mobile communicator 516 appears in FIG. 19C as described herein
below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0200] In the illustrated embodiment, the user may at any time
thereafter actuate the mobile communicator 516 to establish contact
on the basis of part or all of the content contained in the
inaudible non-audio data content portion 504. FIG. 5 shows an
example wherein a user actuates the mobile communicator 516,
typically embodied as a gprs mobile communicator or 3G web-enabled
wireless personal digital assistant, by issuing a command,
typically orally, such as "CONTACT" to access a product-specific
web site identified by the product-specific web address
WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM, resident on the product-specific server 519
which formed part of the content portion 504. In the illustrated
embodiment, this access is achieved via the non product-specific
portal, embodied in the non product-specific server 506, which is
accessed via the Internet by use of a non product-specific web
address, such as WWW.PORTAL.COM, The non product-specific web
address is typically stored in the mobile communicator 516, such as
by means of a cookie.
[0201] A typical data set representing the contents of a
communication sent by the mobile communicator 516 and received by a
non product-specific server 506 appears in FIG. 19D as described
herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0202] Once the user has accessed the product-specific web site 519
identified by the web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may
obtain information or, as shown in FIG. 5 enter into any
appropriate commercial transaction, such as one which results in
water being delivered to the residence of the user.
[0203] Alternatively, where the mobile communicator 516 has
cellular telephone capabilities the user, upon issuing a command,
typically orally, such as "CONTACT" to access a product-specific
telephone destination center 530 identified by the product-specific
telephone number "1-800-WATER4U" which forms part of the
product-specific information 504. In the illustrated embodiment,
this access is achieved via the non product-specific telephone
center 524 by use of a non product-specific telephone number, such
as "1-800-864-2222". The non product-specific telephone center
number need not be broadcast and can be stored in the mobile
communicator 514, by means such as a cookie or SMS.
[0204] A feature of the mobile communicator 516 may be an
associated GPS locator (not shown). The geographical location
coordinates from the GPS locator (not shown) may be transmitted
from the mobile communicator 516 to the non product-specific server
506 and used in such a manner that thereby enhances the appropriate
commercial transaction. Such enhancement may include directing the
user to the nearest product-specific facility, or enable the non
product-specific server 506 to notify a product-specific facility
of the whereabouts of a user.
[0205] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 520 may be preferably coupled to the non
product-specific portal server 506 as to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given content
portions 504, in order to enable suitable payments to be made among
the various parties to the activities illustrated in FIG. 5.
[0206] A typical data set representing the contents of the
communication from the non product-specific server 506, indicating
those portions stored in database 520 appears in FIG. 19E as
described herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0207] It is appreciated that a non product-specific telephone
center 524 or other user contact interface may be provided
alternatively or in addition to non-product-specific server 506 and
may thus be coupled to database 520.
[0208] It is further appreciated that the non product-specific
telephone center 524 or other user contact interface may be
provided alternatively or in addition to server 506 and may thus be
coupled to database 520. Typically the portal server 506, the non
product-specific telephone center 524 and the database 520 are
provided by a non-product specific communication facility 526.
[0209] Reference is now made to FIG. 6, which is a simplified
pictorial illustration of a methodology and system for accessing
information using both non-product specific information and
product-specific information received wirelessly by a user in
accordance with a further preferred embodiment of the present
invention. As seen in FIG. 6, there is provided a system and
methodology wherein a message, here a commercial message, is
broadcast, typically by a radio broadcast facility, such as a
digital broadcast facility or Internet based web radio. Non
product-specific information is to be understood as information
which is not necessarily applicable to accessing a given product or
service, while product-specific information is to be understood as
information which is applicable to accessing a given product or
service.
[0210] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6, the radio broadcast
facility, represented by an antenna tower designated by reference
numeral 600, is a digital broadcast facility with both audio and
data broadcast capabilities. Alternatively or additionally the
radio broadcast facility may be an Internet web radio broadcast
facility. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the broadcast message includes
a digital audible audio content portion, designated by reference
numeral 602, which says "FREE MINERAL WATER--BUY NOW!!" and a
digital inaudible non-audio content portion, designated by
reference numeral 604, which contains at least the following
information: "RADIO NY FREE WATER WWW.PORTAL.COM 1-800-864-2222
WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM 1-800-WATER4U".
[0211] In this embodiment it is seen that both non-product specific
information, for example a telephone number such as
"1-800-864-2222" or a web address such as "WWW.PORTAL.COM" and
product-specific information, for example "1-800-WATER4U" or the
product-specific web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM" are provided in
the digital inaudible non-audio content portion 604. It is
appreciated that the product-specific information may have any
suitable level of specificity, i.e. it can refer to a single
product or service or to a class of products and services as
appropriate.
[0212] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
computerized integrated vehicle information system 606, in a
vehicle 607. Examples of computerized integrated vehicle
information system 606 are Clarion Auto PC, AC Electric Vehicles
Ltd. Compact Mobile Computer, and Delphi Automotive Systems
Infotainment PC. Such computerized integrated vehicle information
systems incorporate integrated communication systems such as a
digital radio receiver, wireless modem for Internet connectivity,
cellular telephone, computerized car guidance system utilizing GPS
608: The digital audible audio content portion 602 may be heard by
a user in the vehicle 607, via a speaker 610 while the digital
inaudible non-audio data content portion 604 is not heard.
[0213] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 600 and received by integrated radio 609 appears in FIG.
20A as described herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0214] It is noted that at least part of the digital inaudible
non-audio content portion 604 is not only not heard but is also not
visible to the user on the computer display 613, so as to prevent
possible distraction of the user.
[0215] It is further noted that avoidance of display of at least
part of the digital content portion 604 on the computer display 613
is an important safety feature of the present invention and
distinguishes the digital inaudible non-audio content portion 604
from conventional subcarrier messages, such as commercial RDS
messages, which are conventionally displayed on radio displays.
[0216] Thus, it is seen that only static information, such as the
legend "RADIO NY", is displayed on the computer display 613. This
message typically continues to be displayed as long as the radio is
tuned to Radio NY and thus is considered not to be distracting.
[0217] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 600, indicating that portion displayed by display 613 of
integrated radio 609 appears in FIG. 20B as described herein below
with reference to FIG. 25.
[0218] In response to hearing the digital audio content portion,
"FREE MINERAL WATER--BUY NOW!!" 602, the user may issue a command,
typically orally, such as "CAPTURE". This command, in accordance
with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, is received
by the computerized integrated vehicle information system 606. In
response to receipt of the "CAPTURE" command, at least some, if not
all of the information contained in the digital inaudible non-audio
data content portion 604 is supplied from can integrated digital
radio located within the computerized integrated vehicle
information system 606 to a data storage medium also located within
the computerized integrated vehicle information system 606. In FIG.
6, for example only the product name part of captured digital
content portion 604 is shown on the computer display 613 of the
computerized integrated vehicle information system 606, it being
understood that any other part of captured digital content portion
604 may be alternatively or additionally made visible. For example,
the computer display 613, of the computerized integrated vehicle
information system 606, can list subject titles of other such
capture events captured in a similar manner as described herein.
Thus capture event # 1 concerns a news item, capture event # 2
concerns a book, and capture event # 3 concerns water. Further
information contained in the inaudible non-audio content portion
604 and pertaining to the captured event may be displayed on
alternative menus on the computer display 613 of the computerized
integrated vehicle information system 606 as shown in FIG. 6.
[0219] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 600, indicating those portions displayed by display 613 of
the computerized integrated vehicle information system 606 appears
in FIG. 20C as described herein below with reference to FIG.
25.
[0220] In the illustrated embodiment, FIG. 6, the user may at any
time thereafter actuate an integrated mobile communicator located
within the computerized integrated vehicle information system 606
by issuing a command, typically orally, such as "CONTACT". In
response to receipt of the "CONTACT" command, FIG. 6 shows an
example wherein a user actuates the integrated mobile communicator
located within the computerized integrated vehicle information
system 606, accesses a product-specific web site identified by the
product-specific web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM" which forms part
of the digital data content portion 604. In the illustrated
embodiment, this access is achieved via a non product-specific
portal, embodied in a server 619, which is accessed via the
Internet by use of a non product-specific web address, such as
"WWW.PORTAL.COM". The non product-specific web address need not be
broadcast and can be stored in the computerized integrated vehicle
information system 606, such as by means of a cookie.
Alternatively, the non product-specific web address may be
broadcast as part of the digital content portion 604 or
otherwise.
[0221] Once the user has accessed the product-specific web site
identified by the product-specific web address
"WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may obtain information or, as shown
in FIG. 6 enter into any appropriate commercial transaction, such
as one which results in water being delivered to the residence of
the user.
[0222] A typical feature of the computerized integrated vehicle
information systems 606 is a GPS locator 608. The geographical
location coordinates from the GPS locator 608 may be transmitted
from the computerized integrated vehicle information system 606 to
the non product-specific server 619 and used in such a manner that
thereby enhances the appropriate commercial transaction. Such
enhancement may include directing the user to the nearest
product-specific facility, or enable the non product-specific
server 619 to notify a product-specific facility of the whereabouts
of a user.
[0223] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the user may alternatively wish to
transfer the digital content portion 604 to a hand-held mobile
communicator 614, such as an appropriately equipped mobile
telephone or personal digital assistant, for use independent of the
computerized integrated vehicle information system 606. In
accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention,
the user can issue a command typically orally, such as "TRANSFER",
which is received by either the computerized integrated vehicle
information system 606 or by mobile communicator 614, here
preferably a Bluetooth, web-enabled PDA. Once actuated in response
to receipt of the "TRANSFER" command, the captured digital content
portion 604 is supplied from computerized integrated vehicle
information system 606 to the mobile communicator 614, as indicated
symbolically at reference numeral 616.
[0224] The mobile communicator display 616 can list subject titles
of other such capture events captured in a similar manner as
described herein. Thus capture event #1 concerns a news item,
capture event #2 concerns a book, and capture event #3 concerns
water. Further information contained in the inaudible non-audio
content portion 604 and pertaining to the captured event may be
displayed on alternative menus on the mobile communicator display
616 as shown in FIG. 6.
[0225] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the mobile communicator 614
accesses a product-specific web site located on a product-specific
server 628 identified by the product-specific web address
"WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM" which forms part of the digital content
portion 604. In the illustrated embodiment, this access is achieved
via a non product-specific portal, embodied in a server 619, which
is accessed via the Internet by use of a non product-specific web
address, such as WWW.PORTAL.COM located on non product-specific
server 619. The non product-specific web address need not be
broadcast and can be stored in the mobile communicator 614, such as
by means of a cookie. Alternatively, the non product-specific web
address may be transferred as part of digital content portion 604
or otherwise as shown symbolically at reference 616.
[0226] Alternatively, where the mobile communicator 614 has
cellular telephone capabilities the user, upon issuing a command,
typically orally, such as "CONTACT" to access a product-specific
telephone destination center 617 identified by the product-specific
telephone number "1-800-WATER4U" which forms part of the
product-specific information of digital content portion 604. In the
illustrated embodiment, this access is achieved via the non
product-specific telephone center 624 by use of a non
product-specific telephone number, such as "1-800-864-2222". The
non product-specific telephone center number need not be broadcast
and can be stored in the mobile communicator 614, by means such as
a cookie or SMS.
[0227] A typical data set representing the contents of a
communication sent by the mobile communicator 614 and received by a
non product-specific server 615 appears in FIG. 20D as described
herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0228] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, the database 620 may be provided which may receive all
or part of the digital content portion 647 via a computer network
communication, as from a computer 622, associated with the
broadcast facility 600 via the non product-specific portal server
619. This database 620 is preferably coupled to the non
product-specific server 619 so as to collect and correlate user
information, including cellular location information supplied by
the cellular operators, and activities in connection with given
digital content portions 604, in order to enable suitable payments
to be made among the various parties to the activities illustrated
in FIG. 6.
[0229] A typical data set representing the contents of the
communication from the non product-specific server 619, indicating
those portions stored in database 620 appears in FIG. 20E as
described herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0230] It is appreciated that a non product-specific telephone
center 624 or other user contact interface may be provided
alternatively or in addition to non product-specific server 619 and
may thus be coupled to database 620.
[0231] It is further appreciated that the non product-specific
telephone center 624 or other user contact interface may be
provided alternatively or in addition to server 619 and may thus be
coupled to database 620. Typically the portal server 619, the non
product-specific telephone center 624 and the database 620 are
provided by a non-product specific communication facility 626.
[0232] Reference is now made to FIG. 7, which is a simplified
pictorial illustration of a methodology and system for accessing
information using both non-product specific information and
product-specific information received wirelessly and non-wirelessly
by a user in accordance with a further preferred embodiment of the
present invention. As seen in FIG. 7, there is provided a system
and methodology wherein a message, here a commercial message, is
broadcast, typically by a radio broadcast facility 700, such as an
FM broadcast facility or a satellite radio facility. Non
product-specific information is to be understood as information
which is not necessarily applicable to accessing a given product or
service, while product-specific information is to be understood as
information which is applicable to accessing a given product or
service.
[0233] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 7, the radio broadcast
facility, represented by an antenna tower designated by reference
numeral 700, is a FM broadcast facility having subcarrier broadcast
functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS or a DARC protocol.
Alternatively or additionally the radio broadcast facility may be a
digital radio broadcast facility or a satellite broadcast facility
such as XMRADIO. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the broadcast message
includes an audible audio content portion, designated by reference
numeral 701, which says "FREE MINERAL WATER--BUY NOW!!" and an
inaudible non-audio content portion, designated by reference
numeral 712, which contains at least the following information:
"RADIO NY FREE WATER WWW.PORTAL.COM #1234#", where the web address
WWW.PORTAL.COM is a non product-specific web address and #1234# is
coded product-specific information. The inaudible non-audio content
portion 712 is preferably a subcarrier content portion when the
radio broadcast facility is an FM broadcast facility having a
subcarrier broadcast functionality.
[0234] The broadcast message may be received by a receiver, for
example, a satellite 702 that retransmits the broadcast message to
a further receiver, for example a satellite receiver dish 703. The
broadcast message is transferred by wired means to a head-end
station 704. A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 700 and received by headend station 712 appears in FIG.
21A as described herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0235] The combined transmission signal for radio, television, and
PC is transferred by means of a cable communicator 705 to a user's
domicile 706. A set-top box deplexer 707 provides connectivity
input for a cable television 708, and cable-connected PC 709and a
cable-connected radio 710. The audible audio content portion 701 is
broadcast via the cable radio 710 simultaneous to which at least
part of the inaudible non-audio content portion 712 is shown on a
dedicated cable channel on the cable television display screen 718.
In FIG. 7, for example only the product description and broadcast
station identity part of content portion 712 is shown as being
supplied, it being understood that any other part of content
portion 712 may be alternatively or additionally supplied.
[0236] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 700, indicating that portion displayed by radio 710
appears in FIG. 21B as described herein below with reference to
FIG. 25.
[0237] Concurrent, or any time previous, with the broadcasting of
the broadcast message, full product-specific information 711 and,
but not necessarily, other information pertaining to the broadcast
message corresponding to the product-specific code contained in
portion 712 can be transmitted via a computer network
communication, as from a computer 713, associated with the
broadcast facility 700 to a database 728 via a non product-specific
server 720.
[0238] In response to hearing the audible audio content portion
701, "FREE MINERAL WATER--BUY NOW!!", the user may issue a command,
typically manually via the remote control device 722 that actuates
a hyperlink connection back up in the cable communicator 705 to the
head-end station 704.
[0239] In the illustrated embodiment, FIG. 7, shows an example
wherein a user actuates the hyperlink via the cable television
remote device 722 to access a product-specific web site located on
a server 724 identified by the product-specific web address
WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM. In the illustrated embodiment, this
product-specific access is achieved via a non product-specific
portal, embodied in the server 720, which is accessed from the
head-end station 704 via the Internet by use of a non
product-specific web address, such as "WWW.PORTAL.COM". The non
product-specific web address may be broadcast as part of content
portion 712 or otherwise.
[0240] A typical data set representing the contents of the
inaudible non-audio content portion transmitted by broadcast
facility 700, indicating those portions displayed by television 708
appears in FIG. 21C as described herein below with reference to
FIG. 25.
[0241] The product-specific code, shown for example as #1234#, is
transmitted back up the cable 705 from the set-top box 707 together
with the non-product-specific web address WWW.PORTAL.COM to the
head-end station 704. The product-specific code is received by the
non product-specific portal server 720 and sent to the database
728. The product-specific code is matched in the database 728 to
the content information 711 received from the computer 713
associated with the broadcast facility 700. The matched
product-specific web address WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM that results is
accessed via the non product-specific portal server 720.
[0242] A typical data set representing the contents of a
communication sent by the headend facility 704 and received by a
non product-specific server 720 appears in FIG. 21D as described
herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0243] It is appreciated that displaying the inaudible non-audio
content portion 712 and accessing an associated URL via cable
television 718, according to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7,
can also be performed via a cable-connected PC 709. It is further
appreciated that the audible audio content portion 701 can be made
audible via the cable television 705 and alternatively via the
cable-connected PC 709.
[0244] Once the user has accessed the product-specific web site
identified by the product-specific web address
"WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may obtain information or, as shown
in FIG. 7 enter into any appropriate commercial transaction, such
as one which results in water being delivered to the residence of
the user.
[0245] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, The database 728 is preferably also coupled to the non
product-specific server 720 so as to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given content
portions 712, in order to enable suitable payments to be made among
the various parties to the activities illustrated in FIG. 7.
[0246] A typical data set representing the contents of the
communication from the non product-specific server 720, indicating
those portions stored in database 728 appears in FIG. 21E as
described herein below with reference to FIG. 25.
[0247] Typically the portal server 720, and the database 728 are
provided by a non-product specific communication facility 730.
[0248] Reference is now made to FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E & 8F
which are simplified functional block diagrams of six alternative
embodiments of the system of FIG. 1. As seen in FIG. 8A, there is
provided a system and methodology of the type shown in FIG. 1,
wherein a commercial message is broadcast by a radio broadcast
facility, such as an FM or digital broadcast facility.
[0249] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 8A, the radio
broadcast facility 100 (FIG. 1), typically a FM broadcast facility
having subcarrier broadcast functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS
or a DARC protocol, includes an audio signal processor 810,
receiving an audio signal input, as well as a data signal processor
812, receiving a data signal input. Outputs of processors 810 and
812 are supplied to a signal synchronizer 814, which combines these
outputs with suitable synchronization therebetween and supplies a
combined output to a transmitter 816.
[0250] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the broadcast message preferably
includes an audible audio content portion and an inaudible
non-audio content portion.
[0251] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
radio 106 (FIG. 1), typically located in a vehicle. As seen in FIG.
8A, the radio is a non-standard radio including a signal receiver
820 which outputs to a signal separator 822, which is operative to
separate the received signal into audio and data portions which are
processed respectively by an audio signal processor 824 and a data
signal processor 826. The output of the audio signal processor 824
may be heard by a user via a speaker, such as speaker 110 (FIG.
1).
[0252] The output of the data signal processor 826 is supplied to a
data signal separator 828 which may provide a visible output to a
suitable radio display, such as display 112 (FIG. 1). It is a
particular feature of the present invention that the data signal
separator 828 also provides a non-audio, non-visible output, which
may be stored in a signal storage medium 830. Such storage may be,
but need not necessarily be, governed by a switch 832 controlled by
an operator using an operator interface 834.
[0253] In the example shown in FIG. 5A, the operator interface 834
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CAPTURE"
as illustrated in FIG. 1, the non-audio, non-visible output of data
signal separator 828 is stored in storage medium 830.
[0254] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 836 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 830 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 834. The operation of switch 836
may be similar to that of switch 832, the only difference in their
effect being that switch 832 governs storage of the non-audio,
non-visible output, while switch 836 governs supply thereof to a
transceiver 838.
[0255] The non-audio, non-visible output transmitted by transceiver
838 may be received by a transceiver 840 forming part of the mobile
communicator 114 (FIG. 1). It is appreciated that transceivers 838
and 840 and the communication link therebetween may be replaced by
any other suitable wired or wireless communication link, such as a
ohmic connection, an IR communication link, a Bluetooth
communication link or another short range communication link.
[0256] The output of transceiver 840 is preferably supplied to a
data signal processor 842. The output of the data signal processor
842 may be supplied to a data signal separator 844, which may
provide a visible data output which may be displayed on a screen
115 of the mobile communicator 114 and also provides a contact
information output, which may be stored in a signal storage medium
846. In the context of FIG. 1, the contact information output may
include, for example, a web address such as "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM"
and/or a telephone number. Such storage may be, but need not
necessarily be, governed by a switch 848 controlled by an operator
using an operator interface 850.
[0257] In the example shown in FIG. 8A, the operator interface 850
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CONTACT"
as illustrated in FIG. 1, the contact information output of data
signal separator 844 is stored in storage medium 846.
[0258] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 852 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 846 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 850. The operation of switch 852
may be similar to that of switch 848, the only difference in their
effect being that switch 848 governs storage of the contact
information output, while switch 852 governs supply thereof to a
transceiver 854.
[0259] Transceiver 854 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with server 119 (FIG.
1), which in turn communicates with database 126 (FIG. 1).
[0260] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 114 to establish contact
via transceiver 854 on the basis of part or all of the contact
information output from data signal separator 844.
[0261] A GPS device 855 may be associated with the mobile
communicator 114 and may transmit the user's geographic coordinates
to the server 119 via the transceiver 854
[0262] FIG. 1 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 114, typically embodied as a web-enabled wireless
personal digital assistant, to access a web site identified by the
web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM" which forms part of the content
information output. In the illustrated embodiment, this access is
achieved via a portal, embodied in server 119, which is accessed
via the Internet by use of a non product-specific web address, such
as "WWW.PORTAL.COM". The non product-specific web address need not
be broadcast and is typically stored in the mobile communicator
114, such as by means of a cookie. Alternatively, the non
product-specific web address may be broadcast as part of content
portion 104 (FIG. 1) or otherwise.
[0263] Once the user has accessed the web site identified by the
web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may obtain information
or, as shown in FIG. 1, enter into any appropriate commercial
transaction, such as one which results in water being delivered to
the residence of the user.
[0264] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 126 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 844 via a computer
network communication, and from data signal processor 812. Database
126 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 856. The
facilitator 856 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator preferably interfaces among and between a
broadcast facility 100 (FIG. 1) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 858 and various elements of communication facility 130
(FIG. 1) such as database 126, server 119 and telephone center 124.
The facilitator 856 may be operated by the operator of
communication facility 130 or by another entity.
[0265] The facilitator 856 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 100 (FIG. 1) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 858 and various elements of communication facility 130
(FIG. 1) such as database 126, server 119 and telephone center 124.
Though it is appreciated that the facilitator 856 may provide
payment arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility
100 (FIG. 1), a user, a supplier of goods or services 858 and an
advertiser.
[0266] Turning to FIG. 8B, there is provided a system and
methodology of the type shown in FIG. 1, wherein a message, here a
commercial message, is broadcast, typically by a radio broadcast
facility, such as an FM broadcast facility.
[0267] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 8B, the radio
broadcast facility 100 (FIG. 1), typically a FM broadcast facility
having subcarrier broadcast functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS
or a DARC protocol, includes an audio signal processor 910,
receiving an audio signal input, as well as a data signal processor
912, receiving a data signal input. Outputs of processors 910 and
912 are supplied to a signal synchronizer 914, which combines these
outputs with suitable synchronization therebetween and supplies a
combined output to a transmitter 916.
[0268] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the broadcast message, preferably
includes an audible audio content portion, and the inaudible
non-audio subcarrier content portion.
[0269] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by radio
106 (FIG. 1), typically located in a vehicle. As seen in FIG. 8B,
the radio is a non-standard radio including a signal receiver 920
which outputs to a signal separator 922, which is operative to
separate the received signal into audio and data portions and are
processed respectively by an audio signal processor 924 and a data
signal processor 926. The output of the audio signal processor 924
may be heard by a user via a speaker, such as speaker 110 (FIG.
1).
[0270] The output of the data signal processor 926 is supplied to a
data signal separator 928 which may provide a visible data output
to a suitable radio display, such as display 112 (FIG. 1). It is a
particular feature of the present invention that the data signal
separator 928 also provides a non-audio, non-visible output, which
may be stored in a signal storage medium 930 and is provided to a
transceiver 938.
[0271] The non-audio, non-visible output transmitted by transceiver
938 may be received by a transceiver 940 forming part of a mobile
communicator 114 (FIG. 1). It is appreciated that transceivers 938
and 940 and the communication link therebetween may be replaced by
any other suitable wired or wireless communication link, such as a
ohmic connection, an IR communication link, a Bluetooth
communication link or another short range communication link.
[0272] The output of transceiver 940 may be supplied to a storage
medium 942. Such storage may be, but need not necessarily be,
governed by a switch 944 controlled by an operator using an
operator interface 946.
[0273] In the example shown in FIG. 1, the operator interface 946
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CAPTURE"
as illustrated in FIG. 1, the non-audio, non-visible output of data
signal separator is stored in storage medium 942.
[0274] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 948 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 942 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 946. The operation of switch 948
may be similar to that of switch 944, the only difference in their
effect being that switch 948 governs storage of the non-audio,
non-visible output, while switch 944 governs supply thereof to a
data signal processor 950.
[0275] The output of the data signal processor 950 may be supplied
to a data signal separator 952, which may provide a visible output
which may be displayed on a screen 115 of the mobile communicator
114 and also provides a contact information output, which may be
stored in a signal storage medium 954. In the context of FIG. 1,
the contact information output may include, for example, a web
address such as "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM" or a telephone number. Such
storage may be, but need not necessarily be, governed by a switch
956 controlled by an operator using an operator interface 958.
[0276] In the example shown in FIG. 1, the operator interface 958
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CONTACT"
as illustrated in FIG. 1, the contact information output is stored
in storage medium 954.
[0277] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 960 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 954 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 958. The operation of switch 960
may be similar to that of switch 956, the only difference in their
effect being that switch 956 governs storage of the contact
information output, while switch 960 governs supply thereof to a
transceiver 962.
[0278] A GPS device 955 may be associated with the mobile
communicator 114 and may transmit the user's geographic coordinates
to the server 119 via the transceiver 962.
[0279] Transceiver 962 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with server 119 (FIG.
1), which in turn communicates with database 126 (FIG. 1).
[0280] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 114 to establish contact
via transceiver 962 on the basis of part or all of the contact
information output from data signal separator 952.
[0281] FIG. 1 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 114, typically embodied as a web-enabled wireless
personal digital assistant, to access a web site identified by the
web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM" which forms part of the content
information output. In the illustrated embodiment, this access is
achieved via a portal, embodied in server 119, which is accessed
via the Internet by use of a non product-specific web address, such
as "WWW.PORTAL.COM". The non product-specific web address need not
be broadcast and is typically stored in the mobile communicator
114, such as by means of a cookie. Alternatively, the non
product-specific web address may be broadcast as part of content
portion 104 (FIG. 1) or otherwise.
[0282] Once the user has accessed the web site identified by the
web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may obtain information
or, as shown in FIG. 1 enter into any appropriate commercial
transaction, such as one which results in water being delivered to
the residence of the user.
[0283] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 126 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 952 via a computer
network communication, and from data signal processor 950. Database
126 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 964. The
facilitator 964 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator 964 preferably interfaces among and
between a broadcast facility 100 (FIG. 1) a user, a supplier of
goods or services 966 and various elements of communication
facility 130 (FIG. 1) such as database 126, server 119 and
telephone center 124. The facilitator 964 may be operated by the
operator of communication facility 130 or by another entity.
[0284] The facilitator 964 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 100 (FIG. 1) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 966 and various elements of communication facility 130
(FIG. 1) such as database 126, server 119 and telephone center 124.
Though it is appreciated that the facilitator 964 may provide
payment arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility
100 (FIG. 1), a user, a supplier of goods or services 966 and an
advertiser.
[0285] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 8C, the radio
broadcast facility 100 (FIG. 1), typically a digital broadcast
facility, includes a voice to data processor 1010, receiving an
audio signal input. The output of processor 1010 and a data signal
input are supplied to a digital signal processor 1014, which
combines these outputs with suitable synchronization therebetween
and supplies a combined output to a digital transmitter 1016.
[0286] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the broadcast message, preferably
includes an audible audio content portion, and an inaudible
non-audio content portion.
[0287] The digital broadcast message may be received, for example,
by a radio 106 (FIG. 1), typically located in a vehicle. As seen in
FIG. 8C, the radio is a non-standard digital radio including a
digital signal receiver 1020 which outputs to a digital signal
processor 1022. The processed signal is delivered to a digital
signal separator 1024 which is operative to separate the received
digital signal into audio and data portions which are processed
respectively by a data to voice processor 1026 and a data signal
separator 1028. The output of the data to voice processor 1026 may
be heard by a user via a speaker, such as speaker 110 (FIG. 1).
[0288] The output of the data signal separator 1028 may provide a
visible data output to a suitable radio display, such as display
112 (FIG. 1). It is a particular feature of the present invention
that the data signal separator 1028 also provides a non-audio,
non-visible output, which may be stored in a signal storage medium
1030. Such storage may be, but need not necessarily be, governed by
a switch 1032 controlled by an operator using an operator interface
1034.
[0289] In the example shown in FIG. 1, the operator interface 1034
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CAPTURE"
as illustrated in FIG. 1, the non-audio, non-visible output of data
signal separator is stored in storage medium 1030.
[0290] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1036 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1030 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1034. The operation of switch
1036 may be similar to that of switch 1032, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1032 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 1036 governs supply
thereof to a transceiver 1038.
[0291] The non-audio, non-visible output transmitted by transceiver
1038 may be received by a transceiver 1040 forming part of a mobile
communicator 114 (FIG. 1). It is appreciated that transceivers 1038
and 1040 and the communication link therebetween may be replaced by
any other suitable wired or wireless communication link, such as a
ohmic connection, an IR communication link, a Bluetooth
communication link or another short range communication link.
[0292] The output of transceiver 1040 may be supplied to a data
signal processor 1050. The output of the data signal processor 1050
may be supplied to a data signal separator 1052, which may provide
a visible output which may be displayed on a screen of the mobile
communicator 114 and also provides a contact information output,
which may be stored in a signal storage medium 1054. In the context
of FIG. 1, the contact information output may include, for example,
a web address such as "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM" or a telephone number.
Such storage may be, but need not necessarily be, governed by a
switch 1056 controlled by an operator using an operator interface
1058.
[0293] In the example shown in FIG. 1, the operator interface 1058
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CONTACT"
as illustrated in FIG. 1, the contact information output is stored
in storage medium 1054.
[0294] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1060 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1054 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1058. The operation of switch
1060 may be similar to that of switch 1056, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1056 governs storage of the contact
information output, while switch 1060 governs supply thereof to a
transceiver 1062.
[0295] A GPS device 1055 may be associated with the mobile
communicator 114 and may transmit the user's geographic coordinates
to the server 119 via the transceiver 1062.
[0296] Transceiver 1062 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with server 119 (FIG.
1), which in turn communicates with database 126 (FIG. 1).
[0297] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 114 to establish contact
via transceiver 1062 on the basis of part or all of the contact
information output from data signal separator 1052.
[0298] FIG. 1 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 114, typically embodied as a web-enabled wireless
personal digital assistant, to access a web site identified by the
web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM" which forms part of the content
information output. In the illustrated embodiment, this access is
achieved via a portal, embodied in server 119, which is accessed
via the Internet by use of a non product-specific web address, such
as "WWW.PORTAL.COM". The non product-specific web address need not
be broadcast and is typically stored in the mobile communicator
114, such as by means of a cookie. Alternatively, the non
product-specific web address may be broadcast as part of content
portion 104 (FIG. 1) or otherwise.
[0299] Once the user has accessed the web site identified by the
web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may obtain information
or, as shown in FIG. 1 enter into any appropriate commercial
transaction, such as one which results in water being delivered to
the residence of the user.
[0300] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 126 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 1052 via a computer
network communication, and from data signal processor 1050.
Database 126 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 1068. The
facilitator 1068 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator preferably interfaces among and between a
broadcast facility 100 (FIG. 1) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 1066 and various elements of communication facility 130
(FIG. 1) such as database 126, server 119 and telephone center 124.
The facilitator 1068 may be operated by the operator of
communication facility 130 or by another entity.
[0301] The facilitator 1068 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 100 (FIG. 1) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 1066 and various elements of communication facility 130
(FIG. 1) such as database 126, server 119 and telephone center 124.
Though it is appreciated that the facilitator 1068 may provide
payment arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility
100 (FIG. 1), a user, a supplier of goods or services 1066 and an
advertiser.
[0302] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 8D, the radio
broadcast facility 100 (FIG. 1), typically a digital broadcast
facility, includes a voice to data processor 1110, receiving an
audio signal input. Output of processor 1110 and data signal input
are supplied to a signal processor 1114, which combines these
outputs with suitable synthesis therebetween and supplies a
combined output to a transmitter 1116.
[0303] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the digitized broadcast message,
preferably includes an audible audio content portion, and an
inaudible non-audio content portion.
[0304] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
radio 106 (FIG. 1), typically located in a vehicle. As seen in FIG.
8D, the radio is a non-standard radio including a signal receiver
1120 which outputs to a signal processor 1122. The processed signal
is delivered to a signal separator 1124 which is operative to
separate the received signal into audio and data portions which are
processed respectively by a data to voice processor 1126 and a data
signal separator 1128. The output of the data to voice processor
1126 may be heard by a user via a speaker, such as speaker 110
(FIG. 1).
[0305] The output of the signal processor 1124 is supplied to a
data signal separator 1128 which may provide a visible data output
to a suitable radio display, such as display 112 (FIG. 1). It is a
particular feature of the present invention that the data signal
separator 1128 also provides a non-audio, non-visible output, which
may be provided to a transceiver 1138.
[0306] The non-audio, non-visible output transmitted by transceiver
1138 may be received by a transceiver 1140 forming part of a mobile
communicator 114 (FIG. 1). It is appreciated that transceivers 1138
and 1140 and the communication link therebetween may be replaced by
any other suitable wired or wireless communication link, such as a
ohmic connection, an IR communication link, a Bluetooth
communication link or another short range communication link.
[0307] The output of transceiver 1140 may be supplied to a storage
medium 1142 but need not necessarily be, governed by a switch 1144
controlled by an operator using an operator interface 1146.
[0308] In the example shown in FIG. 1, the operator interface 1146
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CAPTURE"
as illustrated in FIG. 1, the non-audio, non-visible output of data
signal separator is stored in storage medium 1142.
[0309] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1148 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1142 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1146. The operation of switch
1148 may be similar to that of switch 1144, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1148 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 1144 governs supply
thereof to a data signal processor 1150.
[0310] The output of the data signal processor 1150 may be supplied
to a data signal separator 1152, which may provide a visible output
which may be displayed on a screen 115 of the mobile communicator
114 and also provides a contact information output, which may be
stored in a signal storage medium 1154. In the context of FIG. 1,
the contact information output may include, for example, a
product-specific web address such as "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM" or a
product-specific telephone number. Such storage may be, but need
not necessarily be, governed by a switch 1156 controlled by an
operator using an operator interface 1158.
[0311] In the example shown in FIG. 1, the operator interface 1158
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CONTACT"
as illustrated in FIG. 1, the contact information output is stored
in storage medium 1154.
[0312] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1160 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1154 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1158. The operation of switch
1160 may be similar to that of switch 1156, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1156 governs storage of the contact
information output, while switch 1160 governs supply thereof to a
transceiver 1162.
[0313] A GPS device 1155 may be associated with the mobile
communicator 114 and may transmit the user's geographic coordinates
to the server 119 via the transceiver 1162.
[0314] Transceiver 1162 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with server 119 (FIG.
1), which in turn communicates with database 126 (FIG. 1).
[0315] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 114 to establish contact
via transceiver 1162 on the basis of part or all of the contact
information output from data signal separator 1152.
[0316] FIG. 1 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 114, typically embodied as a web-enabled wireless
personal digital assistant, to access a web site identified by the
product-specific web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM" which forms part
of the content information output. In the illustrated embodiment,
this access is achieved via a non product-specific portal, embodied
in server 119, which is accessed via the Internet by use of a non
product-specific web address, such as "WWW.PORTAL.COM". The
product-specific web address may be broadcast as part of content
portion 104 (FIG. 1) or otherwise. Alternatively the non
product-specific web address need not be broadcast and may stored
in the mobile communicator 114, such as by means of a cookie.
[0317] Once the user has accessed the web site identified by the
web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may obtain information
or, as shown in FIG. 1, enter into any appropriate commercial
transaction, such as one which results in water being delivered to
the residence of the user.
[0318] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 126 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 1152 via a computer
network communication, and from data signal processor 1150.
Database 126 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 1164. The
facilitator 1164 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator preferably interfaces among and between a
broadcast facility 100 (FIG. 1) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 1166 and various elements of communication facility 130
(FIG. 1) such as database 126, server 119 and telephone center 124.
The facilitator 1164 may be operated by the operator of
communication facility 130 or by another entity.
[0319] The facilitator 1164 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 100 (FIG. 1) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 1166 and various elements of communication facility 130
(FIG. 1) such as database 126, server 119 and telephone center 124.
Though it is appreciated that the facilitator 1164 may provide
payment arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility
100 (FIG. 1), a user, a supplier of goods or services 1166 and an
advertiser.
[0320] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 8E, the radio
broadcast facility 100 (FIG. 1), typically a FM broadcast facility
having subcarrier broadcast functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS
or a DARC protocol, includes an audio signal processor 1210,
receiving an audio signal input, as well as a data signal processor
1212, receiving a data signal input. Outputs of processors 1210 and
1212 are supplied to a signal synchronizer 1214, which combines
these outputs with suitable synchronization therebetween and
supplies a combined output to a transmitter 1216.
[0321] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the broadcast message, preferably
includes an audible audio content portion, and an inaudible
non-audio content portion.
[0322] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
radio 106 (FIG. 1), typically located in a vehicle. As seen in FIG.
8E, the radio may be a conventional RDS enabled radio, such as a
JVC CH-KP950R, including a signal receiver 1220 which outputs to a
signal separator 1222, which is operative to separate the received
signal into audio and data portions which are processed
respectively by an audio signal processor 1224 and a data signal
processor 1226. The output of the audio signal processor 1224 may
be heard by a user via a speaker, such as speaker 110 (FIG. 1) and
the output of the data signal processor 1226 may provide a visible
data output to a suitable radio display, such as display 112 (FIG.
1). Alternatively, radio 126 may be a conventional non-RDS enabled
radio, such as a Pioneer KEH-1900, which does not include a signal
separator or a data signal processor.
[0323] It is typical of conventional radios 106 that a local signal
is transmitted from the signal receiver 1220 over short distances
typically 3 feet. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention, this local signal is employed by a wireless
interface assembly 1227 to provide contact information from the
radio 106 to the mobile communicator 114 (FIG. 1).
[0324] Interface assembly 1227, which is not shown in FIG. 1, may
reside anywhere within the local signal reception range of the
radio 106 and may be a separate element or may be integrated with a
mobile communicator or in any other suitable vehicle element.
[0325] Interface assembly 1227 preferably includes a local signal
receiver 1228, which receives the local signal from radio 106 and
configures a tuner 1226 to the identical frequency of the signal
receiver 1220 in radio 106 (FIG. 1). This allows the signal
receiver 1228 to receive the identical broadcast message as signal
receiver 1220. The tuned frequency number can be made visible on a
display such as an LED display 1229. It is a particular feature of
the present invention that the frequency of the tuner 1226 may be
manually locked by means of a frequency lock 1230 via a switch 1232
operated by an operator interface 1234, typically a touch
button.
[0326] The signal receiver 1228 provides the signal received from
the transmitter 1216 to a signal separator 1236 that isolates
therefrom a non-audio, non-visible output. The non-audio,
non-visible output is received by a data signal processor 1238
which outputs to a data signal separator 1240, the output of which
may be stored in a signal storage medium 1242. Such storage may be
but need not necessarily be governed by a switch 1244 controlled by
an operator using an operator interface 1246.
[0327] In the example shown in FIG. 8E, the operator interface 1246
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CAPTURE"
as illustrated in FIG. 1, the non-audio, non-visible output of data
signal separator is stored in storage medium 1242.
[0328] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1248 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1242 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1246. The operation of switch
1248 may be similar to that of switch 1244, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1244 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 1248 governs supply
thereof to a transceiver 1250.
[0329] The non-audio, non-visible output transmitted by transceiver
1250 may be received by a transceiver 1260 forming part of a mobile
communicator 114 (FIG. 1). It is appreciated that transceivers 1250
and 1260 and the communication link therebetween may be replaced by
any other suitable wired or wireless communication link, such as a
ohmic connection, an IR communication link, a Bluetooth
communication link or another short range communication link.
[0330] The output of transceiver 1260 is preferably supplied to a
data signal processor 1262. The output of the data signal processor
1262 may be supplied to a data signal separator 1264, which may
provide a visible data output which may be displayed on a screen
115 of the mobile communicator 114 and also provides a contact
information output, which may be stored in a signal storage medium
1266. In the context of FIG. 1, the contact information output may
include, for example, a web address such as "WWW.MWATER/FREE.com"
and/or a telephone number. Such storage may be, but need not
necessarily be, governed by a switch 1268 controlled by an operator
using an operator interface 1270.
[0331] In the example shown in FIG. 1, the operator interface 1270
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CONTACT"
as illustrated in FIG. 1, the contact information output is stored
in storage medium 1266.
[0332] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1272 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1266 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1270. The operation of switch
1272 may be similar to that of switch 1268, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1268 governs storage of the contact
information output, while switch 1272 governs supply thereof to a
transceiver 1274.
[0333] A GPS device 1255 may be associated with the mobile
communicator 114 and may transmit the user's geographic coordinates
to the server 119 via the transceiver 1274.
[0334] Transceiver 1274 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with server 119 (FIG.
1), which in turn communicates with database 126 (FIG. 1).
[0335] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 114 to establish contact
via transceiver 1274 on the basis of part or all of the contact
information output from data signal separator 1264. FIG. 1 shows an
example wherein a user actuates the mobile communicator 114,
typically embodied as a web-enabled wireless personal digital
assistant, to access a web site identified by the web address
"WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM" which forms part of the content information
output. In the illustrated embodiment, this access is achieved via
a portal, embodied in server 119, which is accessed via the
Internet by use of a non product-specific web address, such as
"WWW.PORTAL.COM". The non product-specific web address need not be
broadcast and is typically stored in the mobile communicator 114,
such as by means of a cookie. Alternatively, the non
product-specific web address may be broadcast as part of content
portion 104 (FIG. 1) or otherwise.
[0336] Once the user has accessed the web site identified by the
web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may obtain information
or, as shown in FIG. 1, enter into any appropriate commercial
transaction, such as one which results in water being delivered to
the residence of the user.
[0337] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 126 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 1264 via a computer
network communication, and from data signal processor 1262.
Database 126 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 1276. The
facilitator 1276 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator preferably interfaces among and between a
broadcast facility 100 (FIG. 1) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 1278 and various elements of communication facility 130
(FIG. 1) such as database 126, server 119 and telephone center 124.
The facilitator 1276 may be operated by the operator of
communication facility 130 or by another entity.
[0338] The facilitator 1276 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 100 (FIG. 1) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 1278 and various elements of communication facility 130
(FIG. 1) such as database 126, server 119 and telephone center 124.
Though it is appreciated that the facilitator 1276 may provide
payment arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility
100 (FIG. 1), a user, a supplier of goods or services 1278 and an
advertiser.
[0339] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 8F, the radio
broadcast facility 100 (FIG. 1), typically a FM broadcast facility
having subcarrier broadcast functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS
or a DARC protocol, includes an audio signal processor 1310,
receiving an audio signal input, as well as a data signal processor
1312, receiving a data signal input. Outputs of processors 1310 and
1312 are supplied to a signal synchronizer 1314, which combines
these outputs with suitable synchronization therebetween and
supplies a combined output to a transmitter 1316.
[0340] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the broadcast message, preferably
includes an audible audio content portion and an inaudible
non-audio subcarrier content portion.
[0341] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
radio 106 (FIG. 1), typically located in a vehicle. As seen in FIG.
8F, the radio is a standard radio including a signal receiver 1320
which outputs to a signal separator 1322, which is operative to
separate the received signal into audio and data portions which are
processed respectively by an audio signal processor 1324 and a data
signal processor 1326. The output of the audio signal processor
1324 may be heard by a user via a speaker, such as speaker 110
(FIG. 1) and the output of the data signal processor 1326 may
provide a visible data output to a suitable radio display, such as
display 112 (FIG. 1).
[0342] It is typical of such radios 106 as illustrated in FIG. 1
that a local signal is transmitted from the signal receiver 1320
over short distances, typically 3ft. This local signal is detected
by a local signal tuner device 1322 not shown in FIG. 1 but that
may reside in the radio 106 FIG. 1), in the mobile communicator 114
(FIG. 1), or in close proximity to these.
[0343] The local signal issuing from radio 106 is detected by a
local signal receiver 1324 that configures a tuner 1326 to the
identical frequency of the signal receiver 1320 in radio 106 (FIG.
1). This allows the signal receiver 1328 to receive the identical
broadcast message as signal receiver 1320. The tuned frequency
number can be made visible on a display such as an LED display (not
shown). It is a particular feature of the present invention that
the frequency of the tuner 1326 maybe manually locked by means of a
frequency lock 1330 via a switch 1332 operated by an operator
interface 1334, typically a touch button.
[0344] The signal receiver 1328 passes on the signal received from
the transmitter 1316 to a signal separator 1336 that separates a
non-audio, non-visible output from the audio signal. The non-audio,
non-visible output is received by a data signal processor 1338 and
is subsequently received by a data signal separator 1340 the output
of which is received by a transceiver 1342.
[0345] The non-audio, non-visible output transmitted by transceiver
1342 may be received by a transceiver 1344 forming part of a mobile
communicator 114 (FIG. 1). It is appreciated that transceivers 1342
and 1344 and the communication link therebetween may be replaced by
any other suitable wired or wireless communication link, such as a
ohmic connection, an IR communication link, a Bluetooth
communication link or another short range communication link.
[0346] The output from the transceiver 1344 may be stored in a
signal storage medium 1346. Such storage may be but need not
necessarily be controlled by a switch 1348 controlled by an
operator using an operator interface 1350.
[0347] In the example shown in FIG. 1, the operator interface 1350
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CAPTURE"
as illustrated in FIG. 1, the non-audio, non-visible output of data
signal separator is stored in storage medium 1346.
[0348] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1352 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1346 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1350. The operation of switch
1352 may be similar to that of switch 1348, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1348 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 1352 governs supply
thereof to a data signal processor 1362.
[0349] The output of the data signal processor 1362 may be supplied
to a data signal separator 1364, which may provide a visible data
output which may be displayed on a screen of the mobile
communicator 114 and also provides a contact information output,
which may be stored in a signal storage medium 1366. In the context
of FIG. 1, the contact information output may include, for example,
a web address such as "WWW.MWATER/FREE.com" and/or a telephone
number. Such storage may be, but need not necessarily be, governed
by a switch 1368 controlled by an operator using an operator
interface 1370.
[0350] In the example shown in FIG. 1, the operator interface 1370
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CONTACT"
as illustrated in FIG. 1, the contact information output is stored
in storage medium 1366.
[0351] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1372 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1366 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1370. The operation of switch
1372 may be similar to that of switch 1368, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1368 governs storage of the contact
information output, while switch 1372 governs supply thereof to a
transceiver 1374.
[0352] A GPS device 1375 may be associated with the mobile
communicator 114 and may transmit the user's geographic coordinates
to the server 119 via the transceiver 1374.
[0353] Transceiver 1374 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with server 119 (FIG.
1), which in turn communicates with database 126 (FIG. 1).
[0354] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 1, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 114 to establish contact
via transceiver 1374 on the basis of part or all of the contact
information output from data signal separator 1364.
[0355] FIG. 1 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 114, typically embodied as a web-enabled wireless
personal digital assistant, to access a web site identified by the
web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM" which forms part of the content
information output. In the illustrated embodiment, this access is
achieved via a portal, embodied in server 119, which is accessed
via the Internet by use of a non product-specific web address, such
as "WWW.PORTAL.COM". The non product-specific web address need not
be broadcast and is typically stored in the mobile communicator
114, such as by means of a cookie. Alternatively, the non
product-specific web address may be broadcast as part of content
portion 104 (FIG. 1) or otherwise.
[0356] Once the user has accessed the web site identified by the
web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may obtain information
or, as shown in FIG. 1, enter into any appropriate commercial
transaction, such as one which results in water being delivered to
the residence of the user.
[0357] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 126 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 1364 via a computer
network communication, and from data signal processor 1362.
Database 126 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 1378. The
facilitator 1378 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator preferably interfaces among and between a
broadcast facility 100 (FIG. 1) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 1376 and various elements of communication facility 130
(FIG. 1) such as database 126, server 119 and telephone center 124.
The facilitator 1378 may be operated by the operator of
communication facility 130 or by another entity.
[0358] The facilitator 1378 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 100 (FIG. 1) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 1376 and various elements of communication facility 130
(FIG. 1) such as database 126, server 119 and telephone center 124.
Though it is appreciated that the facilitator 1378 may provide
payment arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility
100 (FIG. 1), a user, a supplier of goods or services 1376 and an
advertiser.
[0359] Reference is now made to FIGS. 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, 9E & 9F
are simplified functional block diagrams of six alternative
embodiments of the system of FIG. 2. As seen in FIG. 9A, there is
provided a system and methodology of the type shown in FIG. 2,
wherein a commercial message is broadcast by a radio broadcast
facility, such as an FM or digital broadcast facility.
[0360] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 9A, the radio
broadcast facility 200 (FIG. 2), typically a FM broadcast facility
having subcarrier broadcast functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS
or a DARC protocol, includes an audio signal processor 1410,
receiving an audio signal input, as well as a data signal processor
1412, receiving a data signal input. Outputs of processors 1410 and
1412 are supplied to a signal synchronizer 1414, which combines
these outputs with suitable synchronization therebetween and
supplies a combined output to a transmitter 1416.
[0361] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the broadcast message preferably
includes an audible audio content portion and an inaudible
non-audio content portion.
[0362] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
radio 206 (FIG. 2), typically located in a vehicle. As seen in FIG.
9A, the radio is a non-standard radio including a signal receiver
1420 which outputs to a signal separator 1422, which is operative
to separate the received signal into audio and data portions which
are processed respectively by an audio signal processor 1424 and a
data signal processor 1426. The output of the audio signal
processor 1424 may be heard by a user via a speaker, such as
speaker 208 (FIG. 2).
[0363] The output of the data signal processor 1426 is supplied to
a data signal separator 1428 which may provide a visible output to
a suitable radio display, such as display 209 (FIG. 2). It is a
particular feature of the present invention that the data signal
separator 1428 also provides a non-audio, non-visible output, which
may be stored in a signal storage medium 1430. Such storage may be,
but need not necessarily be, governed by a switch 1432 controlled
by an operator using an operator interface 1434.
[0364] In the example shown in FIG. 9A, the operator interface 1434
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CAPTURE"
as illustrated in FIG. 2, the non-audio, non-visible output of data
signal separator 1428 is stored in storage medium 1430.
[0365] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1436 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1430 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1434. The operation of switch
1436 may be similar to that of switch 1432, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1432 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 1436 governs supply
thereof to a transceiver 1438.
[0366] The non-audio, non-visible output transmitted by transceiver
1438 may be received by a transceiver 1440 forming part of a mobile
communicator 214 (FIG. 2). It is appreciated that transceivers 1438
and 1440 and the communication link therebetween may be replaced by
any other suitable wired or wireless communication link, such as a
ohmic connection, an IR communication link, a Bluetooth
communication link or another short range communication link.
[0367] The output of transceiver 1440 is preferably supplied to a
data signal processor 1442. The output of the data signal processor
1442 may be supplied to a data signal separator 1444, which may
provide a visible data output which may be displayed on a screen
216 of the mobile communicator 214. The output from the data signal
separator 1444 is typically a product-specific code which, in the
context of FIG. 2 is shown as #1234#, and which may be stored in a
signal storage medium 1446. As distinct from the embodiment in FIG.
8A, non product-specific contact information is not necessarily
contained within the non-audio, non-visible output and may be
provided by means other than the inaudible non-audio content
portion, such as by a cookie. The non product-specific contact
information may also be stored in signal storage medium 1446. In
the context of FIG. 2, the non-product specific contact information
may include, for example, a web address such as "WWW.PORTAL.COM"
and/or a telephone number, such as "1-800-864-2222". Such storage
may be, but need not necessarily be, governed by a switch 1448
controlled by an operator using an operator interface 1450.
[0368] In the example shown in FIG. 9A, the operator interface 1450
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CONTACT"
as illustrated in FIG. 2, the product-specific contact information
output of data signal separator 1444 is stored in storage medium
1446.
[0369] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1452 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1446 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1450. The operation of switch
1452 may be similar to that of switch 1448, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1448 governs storage of the
product-specific contact information output, while switch 1452
governs supply of both the product-specific contact information and
the non product-specific to a transceiver 1454.
[0370] Transceiver 1454 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with a server 213 (FIG.
2), which in turn communicates with database 211 (FIG. 2).
[0371] A GPS device 1455 may be associated with the mobile
communicator may transmit the user's geographic coordinates to the
server 213.
[0372] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 2, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 214 (FIG. 2) to establish
contact via transceiver 1454 on the basis of part or all of the
product-specific contact information output from data signal
separator 1444 and the non product-specific contact information
preferably stored in the storage medium 1446.
[0373] FIG. 2 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 214, typically embodied as a web-enabled wireless
personal digital assistant, to access a product-specific web site
230 (FIG. 2) identified by the web address WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM. In
the illustrated embodiment, this access is achieved via a non
product-specific server, embodied in server 213, which is accessed
via the Internet by use of a non product-specific web address, such
as "WWW.PORTAL.COM".
[0374] Upon accessing the non product-specific web server 213, the
product-specific contact information, such as a code, may be
transferred to the database 211 via the pathway designated as "A".
The code may be matched against the full product-specific
information, shown as 208 in FIG. 2. The product-specific contact
information may be transferred from the database 211 via the
pathway designated as "B" to the non product-specific server 213.
The non product-specific server 213 allows contact to be
established between the user and a product-specific server 217
(FIG. 2). Once the user has accessed the product-specific web site
identified by the web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may
obtain information or, as shown in FIG. 2, enter into any
appropriate commercial transaction, such as one which results in
water being delivered to the residence of the user.
[0375] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 211 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 1444 via a computer
network communication, as from data signal processor 1412. Database
211 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 1456. The
facilitator 1456 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator 1456 preferably interfaces among and
between a broadcast facility 200 (FIG. 2) a user, a supplier of
goods or services 1458 and various elements of communication
facility 226 (FIG. 2) such as database 211, server 213 and
telephone center 224. The facilitator 1456 may be operated by the
operator of communication facility 226 or by another entity.
[0376] The facilitator 1456 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 200 (FIG. 2) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 1458 and various elements of communication facility 226
(FIG. 2) such as database 211, server 213 and telephone center 224.
Thus it is appreciated that the facilitator may provide payment
arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility 200 (FIG.
2), a user, a supplier of goods or services 1458 and an
advertiser.
[0377] Turning to FIG. 9B, there is provided a system and
methodology of the type shown in FIG. 2, wherein a message, here a
commercial message, is broadcast, typically by a radio broadcast
facility, such as an FM broadcast facility.
[0378] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 9B, the radio
broadcast facility 200 (FIG. 2), typically a FM broadcast facility
having subcarrier broadcast functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS
or a DARC protocol, includes an audio signal processor 1510,
receiving an audio signal input, as well as a data signal processor
1512, receiving a data signal input. Outputs of processors 1510 and
1512 are supplied to a signal synchronizer 1514, which combines
these outputs with suitable synchronization therebetween and
supplies a combined output to a transmitter 1516.
[0379] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the broadcast message, preferably
includes an audible audio content portion and an inaudible
non-audio content portion.
[0380] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
radio 206 (FIG. 2), typically located in a vehicle. As seen in FIG.
9B, the radio is a non-standard radio including a signal receiver
1520 which outputs to a signal separator 1522, which is operative
to separate the received signal into audio and data portions which
are processed respectively by an audio signal processor 1524 and a
data signal processor 1526. The output of the audio signal
processor 1524 may be heard by a user via a speaker, such as
speaker 208 (FIG. 2).
[0381] The output of the data signal processor 1526 is supplied to
a data signal separator 1528 which may provide a visible data
output to a suitable radio display, such as display 209 (FIG. 2).
It is a particular feature of the present invention that the data
signal separator 1528 also provides a non-audio, non-visible
output, which may be stored in a signal storage medium 1530 and is
provided to a transceiver 1538.
[0382] The non-audio, non-visible output transmitted by transceiver
1538 may be received by a transceiver 1540 forming part of a mobile
communicator 214 (FIG. 2). It is appreciated that transceivers 1538
and 1540 and the communication link therebetween may be replaced by
any other suitable wired or wireless communication link, such as a
ohmic connection, an IR communication link, a Bluetooth
communication link or another short range communication link.
[0383] The output of transceiver 1540 may be supplied to a storage
medium 1542. Such storage may be, but need not necessarily be,
governed by a switch 1544 controlled by an operator using an
operator interface 1546.
[0384] In the example shown in FIG. 9B, the operator interface 1546
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CAPTURE"
as illustrated in FIG. 2, the non-audio, non-visible output of data
signal separator is stored in storage medium 1542.
[0385] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1548 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1542 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1546. The operation of switch
1548 may be similar to that of switch 1544, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1548 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 1544 governs supply
thereof to a data signal processor 1550.
[0386] The output of the data signal processor 1550 may be supplied
to a data signal separator 1554, which may provide a visible data
output which may be displayed on a screen 216 of the mobile
communicator 214. The output from the data signal separator 1554 is
typically a product-specific code which, in the context of FIG. 2
is shown as #1234#, and which may be stored in a signal storage
medium 1556. As distinct from the embodiment in FIG. 8B, non
product-specific contact information is not necessarily contained
within the non-audio, non-visible output and may be provided by
means other than the inaudible non-audio content portion, such as
by a cookie. The non product-specific contact information may also
be stored in signal storage medium 1556. In the context of FIG. 2,
the non-product specific contact information may include, for
example, a web address such as "WWW.PORTAL.COM" and/or a telephone
number, such as 1-800-864-2222. Such storage may be, but need not
necessarily be, governed by a switch 1558 controlled by an operator
using an operator interface 1560.
[0387] In the example shown in FIG. 9B, the operator interface 1560
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CONTACT"
as illustrated in FIG. 2, the product-specific contact information
output of data signal separator 1554 is stored in storage medium
1556.
[0388] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1562 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1556 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1560. The operation of switch
1562 may be similar to that of switch 1558, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1558 governs storage of the
product-specific contact information output, while switch 1562
governs supply of both the product-specific contact information and
the non product-specific to a transceiver 1564.
[0389] Transceiver 1564 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with a server 213 (FIG.
2), which in turn communicates with database 211 (FIG. 2).
[0390] A GPS device 1565 may be associated with the mobile
communicator may transmit the user's geographic coordinates to the
server.
[0391] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 2, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 214 (FIG. 2) to establish
contact via transceiver 1564 on the basis of part or all of the
product-specific contact information output from data signal
separator 1554 and the non product-specific contact information
preferably stored in the storage medium 1556.
[0392] FIG. 2 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 214, typically embodied as a web-enabled wireless
personal digital assistant, to access a product-specific web site
230 (FIG. 2) identified by the web address WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM. In
the illustrated embodiment, this access is achieved via a non
product-specific server, embodied in server 213, which is accessed
via the Internet by use of a non product-specific web address, such
as "WWW.PORTAL.COM".
[0393] Upon accessing the non product-specific web server 213, the
product-specific contact information, such as a code, may be
transferred to the database 211 via the pathway designated as A.
The code may be matched against the full product-specific
information, shown as 210 in FIG. 2. The product-specific contact
information may be transferred from the database 211 via the
pathway designated as B to the non product-specific server 213. The
non product-specific server 213 allows contact to be established
between the user and a product-specific server 217 (FIG. 2). Once
the user has accessed the product-specific web site identified by
the web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may obtain
information or, as shown in FIG. 2, enter into any appropriate
commercial transaction, such as one which results in water being
delivered to the residence of the user.
[0394] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 211 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 1554 via a computer
network communication, as from data signal processor 1512. Database
211 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 1567. The
facilitator 1567 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator 1567 preferably interfaces among and
between a broadcast facility 200 (FIG. 2) a user, a supplier of
goods or services 1568 and various elements of communication
facility 226 (FIG. 2) such as database 211, server 213 and
telephone center 224. The facilitator 1567 may be operated by the
operator of communication facility 226 or by another entity.
[0395] The facilitator preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 200 (FIG. 2) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 1568 and various elements of communication facility 226
(FIG. 2) such as database 211, server 213 and telephone center 224.
Thus it is appreciated that the facilitator 1567 may provide
payment arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility
200 (FIG. 2), a user, a supplier of goods or services 1568 and an
advertiser.
[0396] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 9C, the radio
broadcast facility 200 (FIG. 2), typically a digital broadcast
facility, includes a voice to data processor 1610, receiving an
audio signal input. The output of processor 1610 and a data signal
input are supplied to a digital signal processor 1614, which
combines these outputs with suitable synchronization therebetween
and supplies a combined output to a digital transmitter 1616.
[0397] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the broadcast message, preferably
includes an audible audio content portion, and an inaudible
non-audio content portion.
[0398] The digital broadcast message may be received, for example,
by a radio 206 (FIG. 2), typically located in a vehicle. As seen in
FIG. 9C, the radio is a non-standard digital radio including a
digital signal receiver 1620 which outputs to a digital signal
processor 1622. The processed signal is delivered to a digital
signal separator 1624 which is operative to separate the received
digital signal into audio and data portions which are processed
respectively by a data to voice processor 1626 and a data signal
separator 1628. The output of the data to voice processor 1626 may
be heard by a user via a speaker, such as speaker 208 (FIG. 2).
[0399] The output of the data signal separator 1628 may provide a
visible data output to a suitable radio display, such as display
209 (FIG. 2). It is a particular feature of the present invention
that the data signal separator 1628 also provides a non-audio,
non-visible output, which may be stored in a signal storage medium
1630. Such storage may be, but need not necessarily be, governed by
a switch 1632 controlled by an operator using an operator interface
1634.
[0400] In the example shown in FIG. 2, the operator interface 1634
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CAPTURE"
as illustrated in FIG. 2, the non-audio, non-visible output of data
signal separator is stored in storage medium 1630.
[0401] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1636 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1630 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1634. The operation of switch
1636 may be similar to that of switch 1632, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1632 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 1636 governs supply
thereof to a transceiver 1638.
[0402] The non-audio, non-visible output transmitted by transceiver
1638 may be received by a transceiver 1640 forming part of a mobile
communicator 214 (FIG. 2). It is appreciated that transceivers 1638
and 1640 and the communication link therebetween may be replaced by
any other suitable wired or wireless communication link, such as a
ohmic connection, an IR communication link, a Bluetooth
communication link or another short range communication link.
[0403] The output of transceiver 1640 is preferably supplied to a
data signal processor 1642. The output of the data signal processor
1642 may be supplied to a data signal separator 1644, which may
provide a visible data output which may be displayed on a screen
216 of the mobile communicator 214. The output from the data signal
separator 1644 is typically a product-specific code which, in the
context of FIG. 2 is shown as #1234#, and which may be stored in a
signal storage medium 1646. As distinct from the embodiment in FIG.
8C, non product-specific contact information is not necessarily
contained within the non-audio, non-visible output and may be
provided by means other than the inaudible non-audio content
portion, such as by a coolie. The non product-specific contact
information may also be stored in signal storage medium 1646. In
the context of FIG. 2, the non-product specific contact information
may include, for example, a web address such as "WWW.PORTAL.COM"
and/or a telephone number, such as 1-800-864-2222. Such storage may
be, but need not necessarily be, governed by a switch 1648
controlled by an operator using an operator interface 1650.
[0404] In the example shown in FIG. 9C, the operator interface 1650
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CONTACT"
as illustrated in FIG. 2, the product-specific contact information
output of data signal separator 1644 is stored in storage medium
1646.
[0405] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1652 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1646 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1650. The operation of switch
1652 may be similar to that of switch 1648, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1648 governs storage of the
product-specific contact information output, while switch 1652
governs supply of both the product-specific contact information and
the non product-specific to a transceiver 1654.
[0406] Transceiver 1654 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with a server 213 (FIG.
2), which in turn communicates with database 211 (FIG. 2).
[0407] A GPS device 1655 may be associated with the mobile
communicator may transmit the user's geographic coordinates to the
server.
[0408] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 2, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 214 (FIG. 2) to establish
contact via transceiver 1654 on the basis of part or all of the
product-specific contact information output from data signal
separator 1644 and the non product-specific contact information
preferably stored in the storage medium 1646.
[0409] FIG. 2 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 214, typically embodied as a web-enabled wireless
personal digital assistant, to access a product-specific web site
217 (FIG. 2) identified by the web address WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM. In
the illustrated embodiment, this access is achieved via a non
product-specific server, embodied in server 213, which is accessed
via the Internet by use of a non product-specific web address, such
as "WWW.PORTAL.COM".
[0410] Upon accessing the non product-specific web server 213, the
product-specific contact information, such as a code, may be
transferred to the database 211 via the pathway designated as A.
The code may be matched against the full product-specific
information, shown as 210 in FIG. 2. The product-specific contact
information may be transferred from the database 211 via the
pathway designated as B to the non product-specific server 217. The
non product-specific server 213 allows contact to be established
between the user and a product-specific server 228 (FIG. 2). Once
the user has accessed the product-specific web site identified by
the web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may obtain
information or, as shown in FIG. 2, enter into any appropriate
commercial transaction, such as one which results in water being
delivered to the residence of the user.
[0411] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 211 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 1644 via a computer
network communication, as from data signal processor 1612. Database
211 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 1656. The
facilitator 1656 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator 1656 preferably interfaces among and
between a broadcast facility 200 (FIG. 2) a user, a supplier of
goods or services 1658 and various elements of communication
facility 226 (FIG. 2) such as database 211, server 213 and
telephone center 224. The facilitator 1656 may be operated by the
operator of communication facility 226 or by another entity.
[0412] The facilitator 1656 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 200 (FIG. 2) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 1658 and various elements of communication facility 226
(FIG. 2) such as database 211, server 213 and telephone center 224.
Thus it is appreciated that the facilitator may provide payment
arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility 200 (FIG.
2), a user, a supplier of goods or services 1658 and an
advertiser.
[0413] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 9D, the radio
broadcast facility 200 (FIG. 2), typically a digital broadcast
facility, includes a voice to data processor 1710, receiving an
audio signal input. Output of processor 1710 and data signal input
are supplied to a signal processor 1714, which combines these
outputs with suitable synthesis therebetween and supplies a
combined output to a transmitter 1716.
[0414] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the digitized broadcast message,
preferably includes an audible audio content portion and an
inaudible non-audio content portion.
[0415] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
radio 206 (FIG. 2), typically located in a vehicle. As seen in FIG.
9D, the radio is a non-standard radio including a signal receiver
1720 which outputs to a signal processor 1722. The processed signal
is delivered to a signal separator 1724 which is operative to
separate the received signal into audio and data portions which are
processed respectively by a data to voice processor 1726 and a data
signal separator 1728. The output of the data to voice processor
1726 may be heard by a user via a speaker, such as speaker 208
(FIG. 2).
[0416] The output of the signal processor 1724 is supplied to a
data signal separator 1728 which may provide a visible data output
to a suitable radio display, such as display 209 (FIG. 2). The
output from the data signal separator 1728 may be supplied to a
storage medium 1730. It is a particular feature of the present
invention that the data signal separator 1728 also provides a
non-audio, non-visible output, which may be provided to a
transceiver 1738.
[0417] The non-audio, non-visible output transmitted by transceiver
1738 may be received by a transceiver 1740 forming part of a mobile
communicator 214 (FIG. 2). It is appreciated that transceivers 1738
and 1740 and the communication link therebetween may be replaced by
any other suitable wired or wireless communication link, such as a
ohmic connection, an IR communication link, a Bluetooth
communication link or another short range communication link.
[0418] The output of transceiver 1740 may be supplied to a storage
medium 1742 but need not necessarily be, governed by a switch 1744
controlled by an operator using an operator interface 1746.
[0419] In the example shown in FIG. 9D, the operator interface 1746
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CAPTURE"
as illustrated in FIG. 2, the non-audio, non-visible output of data
signal separator is stored in storage medium 1742.
[0420] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1748 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1742 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1746. The operation of switch
1748 may be similar to that of switch 1744, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1748 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 1744 governs supply
thereof to a data signal processor 1750.
[0421] The output of the data signal processor 1750 may be supplied
to a data signal separator 1752, which may provide a visible data
output which may be displayed on a screen 216 of the mobile
communicator 214. The output from the data signal separator 1752 is
typically a product-specific code which, in the context of FIG. 2
is shown as #1234#, and which may be stored in a signal storage
medium 1756. As distinct from the embodiment in FIG. 8D, non
product-specific contact information is not necessarily contained
within the non-audio, non-visible output and may be provided by
means other than the inaudible non-audio content portion, such as
by a cookie. The non product-specific contact information may also
be stored in signal storage medium 1756. In the context of FIG. 2,
the non-product specific contact information may include, for
example, a web address such as "WWW.PORTAL.COM" and/or a telephone
number, such as 1-800-864-2222. Such storage may be, but need not
necessarily be, governed by a switch 1758 controlled by an operator
using an operator interface 1760.
[0422] In the example shown in FIG. 9D, the operator interface 1760
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CONTACT"
as illustrated in FIG. 2, the product-specific contact information
output of data signal separator 1754 is stored in storage medium
1756.
[0423] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1762 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1756 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1760. The operation of switch
1762 may be similar to that of switch 1758, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1758 governs storage of the
product-specific contact information output, while switch 1762
governs supply of both the product-specific contact information and
the non product-specific to a transceiver 1764.
[0424] Transceiver 1764 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with a server 213 (FIG.
2), which in turn communicates with database 211 (FIG. 2).
[0425] A GPS device 1765 may be associated with the mobile
communicator may transmit the user's geographic coordinates to the
server.
[0426] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 2, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 214 (FIG. 2) to establish
contact via transceiver 1764 on the basis of part or all of the
product-specific contact information output from data signal
separator 1754 and the non product-specific contact information
preferably stored in the storage medium 1756.
[0427] FIG. 2 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 214, typically embodied as a web-enabled wireless
personal digital assistant, to access a product-specific web site
230 (FIG. 2) identified by the web address WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM. In
the illustrated embodiment, this access is achieved via a non
product-specific server, embodied in server 213, which is accessed
via the Internet by use of a non product-specific web address, such
as "WWW.PORTAL.COM".
[0428] Upon accessing the non product-specific web server 213, the
product-specific contact information, such as a code, may be
transferred to the database 211 via the pathway designated as A.
The code may be matched against the full product-specific
information, shown as 210 in FIG. 2. The product-specific contact
information may be transferred from the database 211 via the
pathway designated as B to the non product-specific server 213. The
non product-specific server 213 allows contact to be established
between the user and a product-specific server 217 (FIG. 2). Once
the user has accessed the product-specific web site identified by
the web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may obtain
information or, as shown in FIG. 2, enter into any appropriate
commercial transaction, such as one which results in water being
delivered to the residence of the user.
[0429] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 211 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 1754 via a computer
network communication, as from data signal processor 1712. Database
211 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 1767. The
facilitator 1767 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator preferably interfaces among and between a
broadcast facility 200 (FIG. 2) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 1768 and various elements of communication facility 226
(FIG. 2) such as database 211, server 213 and telephone center 224.
The facilitator 1767 may be operated by the operator of
communication facility 226 or by another entity.
[0430] The facilitator preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 200 (FIG. 2) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 1768 and various elements of communication facility 226
(FIG. 2) such as database 211, server 213 and telephone center 224.
Thus it is appreciated that the facilitator may provide payment
arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility 200 (FIG.
2), a user, a supplier of goods or services 176S and an advertiser.
In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 9E, the radio broadcast
facility 200 (FIG. 2), typically a FM broadcast facility having
subcarrier broadcast functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS or a
DARC protocol, includes an audio signal processor 1810, receiving
an audio signal input, as well as a data signal processor 1812,
receiving a data signal input. Outputs of processors 1810 and 1812
are supplied to a signal synchronizer 1814, which combines these
outputs with suitable synchronization therebetween and supplies a
combined output to a transmitter 1816.
[0431] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the broadcast message, preferably
includes an audible audio content portion and an inaudible
non-audio content portion.
[0432] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
radio 206 (FIG. 2), typically located in a vehicle. As seen in FIG.
9E, the radio may be a conventional RDS enabled radio, such as a
JVC CH-KP950R, including a signal receiver 1820 which outputs to a
signal separator 1822, which is operative to separate the received
signal into audio and data portions which are processed
respectively by an audio signal processor 1824 and a data signal
processor 1826. The output of the audio signal processor 1824 may
be heard by a user via a speaker, such as speaker 208 (FIG. 2) and
the output of the data signal processor 1826 may provide a visible
data output to a suitable radio display, such as display 209 (FIG.
2). Alternatively, radio 206 may be a conventional non-RDS enabled
radio, such as a Pioneer KEH-1900, which does not include a signal
separator or a data signal processor.
[0433] It is typical of conventional radios 206 that a local signal
is transmitted from the signal receiver 1820 over short distances
typically 3 feet. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention, this local signal is employed by a wireless
interface assembly 1827 to provide contact information from the
radio 206 to the mobile communicator 214 (FIG. 2).
[0434] Interface assembly 1827, which is not shown in FIG. 2, may
reside anywhere within the local signal reception range of the
radio 206 and may be a separate element or may be integrated with a
mobile communicator or in any other suitable vehicle element.
[0435] Interface assembly 1827 preferably includes a local signal
receiver 1828, which receives the local signal from radio 206 and
configures a tuner 1829 to the identical frequency of the signal
receiver 1820 in radio 206 (FIG. 2). This allows the signal
receiver 1830 in the interface assembly to receive the identical
broadcast message as signal receiver 1820 from transmitter 1816.
The tuned frequency number can be made visible on a display such as
an LED display (not shown). It is a particular feature of the
present invention that the frequency of the tuner 1829 may be
manually locked by means of a frequency lock 1831 via a switch 1832
operated by an operator interface 1834, typically a touch button.
Alternatively the frequency lock 1831 maybe operated
automatically.
[0436] The signal receiver 1828 provides the signal received from
the transmitter 1816 to a signal separator 1836 that isolates
therefrom a non-audio, non-visible output. A data signal processor
receives the non-audio, non-visible output 1838 which outputs to a
data signal separator 1840, the output of which may be stored in a
signal storage medium 1842. Such storage may be but need not
necessarily be governed by a switch 1844 controlled by an operator
using an operator interface 1846.
[0437] In the example shown in FIG. 9E, the operator interface 1846
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CAPTURE"
as illustrated in FIG. 2, the non-audio, non-visible output of data
signal separator is stored in storage medium 1842.
[0438] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1848 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1842 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1846. The operation of switch
1848 may be similar to that of switch 1844, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1844 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 1848 governs supply
thereof to a transceiver 1850.
[0439] The non-audio, non-visible output transmitted by transceiver
1850 may be received by a transceiver 1860 forming part of a mobile
communicator 214 (FIG. 2). It is appreciated that transceivers 1850
and 1860 and the communication link therebetween may be replaced by
any other suitable wired or wireless communication link, such as a
ohmic connection, an IR communication link, a Bluetooth
communication link or another short range communication link.
[0440] The output of transceiver 1860 is preferably supplied to a
data signal processor 1862. The output of the data signal processor
1862 may be supplied to a data signal separator 1864, which may
provide a visible data output which may be displayed on a screen
216 of the mobile communicator 214. The output from the data signal
separator 1864 is typically a product-specific code which, in the
context of FIG. 2 is shown as #1234#, and which may be stored in a
signal storage medium 1866. As distinct from the embodiment in FIG.
8E, non product-specific contact information is not necessarily
contained within the non-audio, non-visible output and may be
provided by means other than the inaudible non-audio content
portion, such as by a cookie. The non product-specific contact
information may also be stored in signal storage medium 1866. In
the context of FIG. 2, the non-product specific contact information
may include, for example, a web address such as "WWW.PORTAL.COM"
and/or a telephone number, such as 1-800-864-2222. Such storage may
be, but need not necessarily be, governed by a switch 1868
controlled by an operator using an operator interface 1870.
[0441] In the example shown in FIG. 9E, the operator interface 1870
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CONTACT"
as illustrated in FIG. 2, the product-specific contact information
output of data signal separator 1864 is stored in storage medium
1866.
[0442] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1872 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1866 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1870. The operation of switch
1872 may be similar to that of switch 1868, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1868 governs storage of the
product-specific contact information output, while switch 1872
governs supply of both the product-specific contact information and
the non product-specific to a transceiver 1874.
[0443] Transceiver 1874 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with a server 213 (FIG.
2), which in turn communicates with database 211 (FIG. 2).
[0444] A GPS device 1875 may be associated with the mobile
communicator may transmit the user's geographic coordinates to the
server.
[0445] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 2, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 214 (FIG. 2) to establish
contact via transceiver 1874 on the basis of part or all of the
product-specific contact information output from data signal
separator 1874 and the non product-specific contact information
preferably stored in the storage medium 1876.
[0446] FIG. 2 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 214, typically embodied as a web-enabled wireless
personal digital assistant, to access a product-specific web site
217 (FIG. 2) identified by the web address WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM. In
the illustrated embodiment, this access is achieved via a non
product-specific server, embodied in server 213, which is accessed
via the Internet by use of a non product-specific web address, such
as "WWW.PORTAL.COM".
[0447] Upon accessing the non product-specific web server 213, the
product-specific contact information, such as a code, may be
transferred to the database 211 via the pathway designated as A.
The code may be matched against the full product-specific
information, shown as 210 in FIG. 2. The product-specific contact
information may be transferred from the database 211 via the
pathway designated as B to the non product-specific server 213. The
non product-specific server 213 allows contact to be established
between the user and a product-specific server 217 (FIG. 2). Once
the user has accessed the product-specific web site identified by
the web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may obtain
information or, as shown in FIG. 2, enter into any appropriate
commercial transaction, such as one which results in water being
delivered to the residence of the user.
[0448] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 211 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 1844 via a computer
network communication, and from data signal processor 1812.
Database 211 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 1876. The
facilitator 1876 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator preferably interfaces among and between a
broadcast facility 200 (FIG. 2) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 1878 and various elements of communication facility 226
(FIG. 2) such as database 211, server 213 and telephone center 224.
The facilitator 1876 may be operated by the operator of
communication facility 226 or by another entity.
[0449] The facilitator 1876 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 200 (FIG. 2) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 1878 and various elements of communication facility 226
(FIG. 2) such as database 211, server 213 and telephone center 224.
Thus it is appreciated that the facilitator may provide payment
arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility 200 (FIG.
2), a user, a supplier of goods or services 1878 and an advertiser.
In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 9F, the radio broadcast
facility 200 (FIG. 2), typically a FM broadcast facility having
subcarrier broadcast functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS or a
DARC protocol, includes an audio signal processor 1910, receiving
an audio signal input, as well as a data signal processor 1912,
receiving a data signal input. Outputs of processors 1910 and 1912
are supplied to a signal synthesizer 1914, which combines these
outputs with suitable synchronization therebetween and supplies a
combined output to a transmitter 1916.
[0450] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the broadcast message, preferably
includes an audible audio content portion and an inaudible
non-audio content portion.
[0451] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
radio 206 (FIG. 2), typically located in a vehicle. As seen in FIG.
9F, the radio is a standard radio including a signal receiver 1920
which outputs to a signal separator 1922, which is operative to
separate the received signal into audio and data portions which are
processed respectively by an audio signal processor 1924 and a data
signal processor 1926. The output of the audio signal processor
1924 may be heard by a user via a speaker, such as speaker 208
(FIG. 2) and the output of the data signal processor 1926 may
provide a visible data output to a suitable radio display, such as
display 209 (FIG. 2).
[0452] It is typical of conventional radios 206 that a local signal
is transmitted from the signal receiver 1920 over short distances
typically 3 feet. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention, this local signal is employed by a wireless
interface assembly 1927 to provide contact information from the
radio 206 to the mobile communicator 214 (FIG. 2).
[0453] Interface assembly 1927, which is not shown in FIG. 2, may
reside anywhere within the local signal reception range of the
radio 206 and may be a separate element or may be integrated with a
mobile communicator or in any other suitable vehicle element.
[0454] Interface assembly 1927 preferably includes a local signal
receiver 1928, which receives the local signal from radio 206 and
configures a tuner 1929 to the identical frequency of the signal
receiver 1920 in radio 206 (FIG. 2). This allows the signal
receiver 1930 in the interface assembly 1927 to receive the
identical broadcast message as signal receiver 1920 from
transmitter 1916. The tuned frequency number can be made visible on
a display such as an LED display (not shown). It is a particular
feature of the present invention that the frequency of the tuner
1929 may be manually locked by means of a frequency lock 1931 via a
switch 1932 operated by an operator interface 1934, typically a
touch button. Alternatively the frequency lock 1931 maybe operated
automatically.
[0455] The signal receiver 1930 passes on the signal received from
the transmitter 1916 to a signal separator 1936 that separates a
non-audio, non-visible output from the audio signal. The non-audio,
non-visible output is received by a data signal processor 1938 and
is subsequently received by a data signal separator 1940 the output
of which is received by a transceiver 1942.
[0456] The non-audio, non-visible output transmitted by transceiver
1942 may be received by a transceiver 1944 forming part of a mobile
communicator 194 (FIG. 2). It is appreciated that transceivers 1942
and 1944 and the communication link therebetween may be replaced by
any other suitable wired or wireless communication link, such as a
ohmic connection, an IR communication link, a Bluetooth
communication link or another short range communication link.
[0457] The output from the transceiver 1944 may be stored in a
signal storage medium 1946. Such storage may be but need not
necessarily be controlled by a switch 1948 controlled by an
operator using an operator interface 1950.
[0458] In the example shown in FIG. 9F, the operator interface 1950
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CAPTURE"
as illustrated in FIG. 2, the non-audio, non-visible output of data
signal separator is stored in storage medium 1946.
[0459] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1952 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1946 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1950. The operation of switch
1952 may be similar to that of switch 1948, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1948 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 1952 governs supply
thereof to a data signal processor 1962.
[0460] The output of the data signal processor 1962 may be supplied
to a data signal separator 1964, which may provide a visible data
output which may be displayed on a screen 216 of the mobile
communicator 214. The output from the data signal separator 1964 is
typically a product-specific code which, in the context of FIG. 2
is shown as #1234#, and which may be stored in a signal storage
medium 1966. As distinct from the embodiment in FIG. 8F, non
product-specific contact information is not necessarily contained
within the non-audio, non-visible output and may be provided by
means other than the inaudible non-audio content portion, such as
by a cookie. The non product-specific contact information may also
be stored in signal storage medium 1966. In the context of FIG. 2,
the non-product specific contact information may include, for
example, a web address such as "WWW.PORTAL.COM" and/or a telephone
number, such as 1-800-864-2222. Such storage may be, but need not
necessarily be, governed by a switch 1968 controlled by an operator
using an operator interface 1970.
[0461] In the example shown in FIG. 9F, the operator interface 1970
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CONTACT"
as illustrated in FIG. 2, the product-specific contact information
output of data signal separator 1964 is stored in storage medium
1966.
[0462] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 1972 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 1966 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 1970. The operation of switch
1972 may be similar to that of switch 1968, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 1968 governs storage of the
product-specific contact information output, while switch 1972
governs supply of both the product-specific contact information and
the non product-specific to a transceiver 1974.
[0463] Transceiver 1964 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with a server 213 (FIG.
2), which in turn communicates with database 211 (FIG. 2).
[0464] A GPS device 1975 may be associated with the mobile
communicator may transmit the user's geographic coordinates to the
server.
[0465] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 2, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 214 (FIG. 2) to establish
contact via transceiver 1974 on the basis of part or all of the
product-specific contact information output from data signal
separator 1964 and the non product-specific contact information
preferably stored in the storage medium 1966.
[0466] FIG. 2 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 214, typically embodied as a web-enabled wireless
personal digital assistant, to access a product-specific web site
217 (FIG. 2) identified by the web address WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM. In
the illustrated embodiment, this access is achieved via a non
product-specific server, embodied in server 213, which is accessed
via the Internet by use of a non product-specific web address, such
as "WWW.PORTAL.COM".
[0467] Upon accessing the non product-specific web server 213, the
product-specific contact information, such as a code, may be
transferred to the database 211 via the pathway designated as A The
code may be matched against the full product-specific information,
shown as 208 in FIG. 2. The product-specific contact information
may be transferred from the database 211 via the pathway designated
as B to the non product-specific server 213. The non
product-specific server 213 allows contact to be established
between the user and a product-specific server 217 (FIG. 2). Once
the user has accessed the product-specific web site identified by
the web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may obtain
information or, as shown in FIG. 2, enter into any appropriate
commercial transaction, such as one which results in water being
delivered to the residence of the user.
[0468] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 211 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 1964 via a computer
network communication, and from data signal processor 1912.
Database 211 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 1977. The
facilitator 1977 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator 1977 preferably interfaces among and
between a broadcast facility 200 (FIG. 2) a user, a supplier of
goods or services 1968 and various elements of communication
facility 226 (FIG. 2) such as database 211, server 213 and
telephone center 224. The facilitator 1977 may be operated by the
operator of communication facility 226 or by another entity.
[0469] The facilitator 1977 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 200 (FIG. 2) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 1968 and various elements of communication facility 226
(FIG. 2) such as database 211, server 213 and telephone center 224.
Thus it is appreciated that the facilitator 1977 may provide
payment arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility
200 (FIG. 2), a user, a supplier of goods or services 1978 and an
advertiser.
[0470] Reference is now made to FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E &
10F are simplified functional block diagrams of six alternative
embodiments of the system of FIG. 3. As seen in FIG. 10A, there is
provided a system and methodology of the type shown in FIG. 3,
wherein a commercial message is broadcast by a radio broadcast
facility, such as an FM or digital broadcast facility.
[0471] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 10A, the radio
broadcast facility 300 (FIG. 33), typically a FM broadcast facility
having subcarrier broadcast functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS
or a DARC protocol, includes an audio signal processor 2010,
receiving an audio signal input, as well as a data signal processor
2012, receiving a data signal input. Outputs of processors 2010 and
2012 are supplied to a signal synchronizer 2014, which combines
these outputs with suitable synchronization therebetween and
supplies a combined output to a transmitter 2016.
[0472] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the broadcast message preferably
includes an audible audio content portion and an inaudible
non-audio content portion.
[0473] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
radio 306 (FIG. 3), typically located in a vehicle. As seen in FIG.
10A, the radio is a non-standard radio including a signal receiver
2020 which outputs to a signal separator 2022, which is operative
to separate the received signal into audio and data portions which
are processed respectively by an audio signal processor 2024 and a
data signal processor 2026. The output of the audio signal
processor 2024 may be heard by a user via a speaker, such as
speaker 309 (FIG. 3).
[0474] The output of the data signal processor 2026 is supplied to
a data signal separator 2028 which may provide a visible output to
a suitable radio display, such as display 312 (FIG. 3). It is a
particular feature of the present invention that the data signal
separator 2028 also provides a non-audio, non-visible output, which
may be stored in a signal storage medium 2030. Such storage may be,
but need not necessarily be, governed by a switch 2032 controlled
by an operator using an operator interface 2034.
[0475] In the example shown in FIG. 10A, the operator interface
2034 may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says
"CAPTURE" as illustrated in FIG. 3, the non-audio, non-visible
output of data signal separator 2028 is stored in storage medium
2030.
[0476] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 2036 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 2030 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 2034. The operation of switch
2036 may be similar to that of switch 2032, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 2032 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 2036 governs supply
thereof to a transceiver 2038.
[0477] The non-audio, non-visible output transmitted by transceiver
2038 may be received by a transceiver 2040 forming part of a mobile
communicator 315 (FIG. 3). It is appreciated that transceivers 2038
and 2040 and the communication link therebetween may be replaced by
any other suitable wired or wireless communication link, such as a
ohmic connection, an IR communication link, a Bluetooth
communication link or another short range communication link.
[0478] The output of transceiver 2040 is preferably supplied to a
data signal processor 2042. The output of the data signal processor
2042 may be supplied to a data signal separator 2044, which may
provide a visible data output which may be displayed on a screen
317 of the mobile communicator 315. The output from the data signal
separator 2044 is typically a non product-specific telephone number
and a product-specific code which, in the context of FIG. 3 is
shown as 1-800-864-2222 and #1234#, and which may be stored in a
signal storage medium 2046. As distinct from the embodiment in FIG.
9A, non product-specific contact information, in a form that may
include a telephone number, together with product-specific contact
information that may include a code, is preferably contained within
the non-audio, non-visible output. Alternatively, the non
product-specific contact information may be provided by means other
than the inaudible non-audio content portion, such as preset
contact information stored in the mobile communicator 315. Such
storage 2046 may be, but need not necessarily be, governed by a
switch 2048 controlled by an operator using an operator interface
2050.
[0479] In the example shown in FIG. 10A, the operator interface
2050 may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says
"CONTACT" as illustrated in FIG. 3, the product-specific contact
information output of data signal separator 2044 is stored in
storage medium 2046.
[0480] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 2052 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 2046 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 2050. The operation of switch
2052 may be similar to that of switch 2048, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 2048 governs storage of the
product-specific contact information output, while switch 2052
governs supply of both the product-specific contact information and
the non product-specific to a transceiver 2054.
[0481] Transceiver 2054 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with a server 318 (FIG.
3), which in turn communicates with database 313 (FIG. 3).
[0482] A GPS device 2055 may be associated with the mobile
communicator and may transmit via the transceiver 2054 the user's
geographic coordinates to the server 311.
[0483] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 3, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 315 (FIG. 3) to establish
contact via transceiver 2054 on the basis of part or all of the
product-specific contact information output from data signal
separator 2044 and the non product-specific contact information
preferably stored in the storage medium 2046.
[0484] FIG. 3 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 315, typically embodied as a cellular telephone or a
WAP phone, to access a product-specific telephone center 330 (FIG.
3) identified by phone number 1-800-WATER4U. In the illustrated
embodiment, this access is achieved via a non product-specific
telephone center, embodied in telephone center 324, which is
accessed via a cellular telephone link by use of a non
product-specific telephone number, such as "1-800-864-2222".
[0485] The non product-specific telephone center 324 preferably
maintains an Internet connection with a non product-specific server
318 as shown in FIG. 3. Upon accessing the non product-specific
telephone center 324, the product-specific contact information,
such as a code, may be transferred to the non product-specific
server 318 via the pathway designated as A. The non
product-specific server 318 may transfer the product-specific
contact information, such as a code, to a database 313 via the
pathway designated as B. The code may be matched against the full
product-specific information, shown as 310 in FIG. 3. The
product-specific contact information may be transferred from the
database 313 via the pathway designated as C to the non
product-specific server 318. The non product-specific server 318
may transfer the product-specific contact information to the non
product-specific telephone center 324 via the pathway designated as
D. The non product-specific telephone center 324 allows contact to
be established between the user and a product-specific telephone
center 330 (FIG. 3). Once the user has accessed the
product-specific telephone center identified by the telephone
number 1-800-WATER4U, the user may obtain information or, as shown
in FIG. 3, enter into any appropriate commercial transaction, such
as one which results in water being delivered to the residence of
the user.
[0486] It is appreciated that where the mobile communicator 315 is
embodied as a WAP enabled phone then the product specific contact
information may be in the form of a web address such as
WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM.
[0487] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 313 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 2044 via a computer
network communication, and from data signal processor 2012.
Database 313 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 2056. The
facilitator 2056 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator 2056 preferably interfaces among and
between a broadcast facility 300 (FIG. 3) a user, a supplier of
goods or services 2058 and various elements of communication
facility 326 (FIG. 3) such as database 313, server 314 and
telephone center 324. The facilitator 2056 may be operated by the
operator of communication facility 326 or by another entity.
[0488] The facilitator preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 300 (FIG. 3) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 2058 and various elements of communication facility 326
(FIG. 3) such as database 320, server 318 and telephone center 324.
Thus it is appreciated that the facilitator may provide payment
arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility 300 (FIG.
3), a user, a supplier of goods or services 2058 and an
advertiser.
[0489] Turning to FIG. 10B, there is provided a system and
methodology of the type shown in FIG. 3, wherein a message, here a
commercial message, is broadcast, typically by a radio broadcast
facility, such as an FM broadcast facility.
[0490] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 10B, the radio
broadcast facility 300 (FIG. 3), typically a FM broadcast facility
having subcarrier broadcast functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS
or a DARC protocol, includes an audio signal processor 2110,
receiving an audio signal input, as well as a data signal processor
2112, receiving a data signal input. Outputs of processors 2110 and
2112 are supplied to a signal synchronizer 2114, which combines
these outputs with suitable synchronization therebetween and
supplies a combined output to a transmitter 2116.
[0491] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the broadcast message, preferably
includes an audible audio content portion and an inaudible
non-audio content portion.
[0492] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
radio 306 (FIG. 3), typically located in a vehicle. As seen in FIG.
10B, the radio is a non-standard radio including a signal receiver
2120 which outputs to a signal separator 2122, which is operative
to separate the received signal into audio and data portions which
are processed respectively by an audio signal processor 2124 and a
data signal processor 2126. The output of the audio signal
processor 2124 may be heard by a user via a speaker, such as
speaker 309 (FIG. 3).
[0493] The output of the data signal processor 2126 is supplied to
a data signal separator 2128 which may provide a visible data
output to a suitable radio display, such as display 312 (FIG. 3).
It is a particular feature of the present invention that the data
signal separator 2128 also provides a non-audio, non-visible output
which may be stored in a signal storage medium 2130 and is provided
to a transceiver 2138.
[0494] The non-audio, non-visible output transmitted by transceiver
2138 may be received by a transceiver 2140 forming part of a mobile
communicator 314 (FIG. 3). It is appreciated that transceivers 2138
and 2140 and the communication link therebetween may be replaced by
any other suitable wired or wireless communication link, such as a
ohmic connection, an IR communication link, a Bluetooth
communication link or another short range communication link.
[0495] The output of transceiver 2140 may be supplied to a storage
medium 2142. Such storage may be, but need not necessarily be,
governed by a switch 2144 controlled by an operator using an
operator interface 2146.
[0496] In the example shown in FIG. 3, the operator interface 2146
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CAPTURE"
as illustrated in FIG. 3, the non-audio, non-visible output of data
signal separator is stored in storage medium 2142.
[0497] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 2148 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 2142 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 2146. The operation of switch
2148 may be similar to that of switch 2144, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 2148 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 2144 governs supply
thereof to a data signal processor 2150.
[0498] The output of the data signal processor 2150 may be supplied
to a data signal separator 2152, which may provide a visible data
output which may be displayed on a screen 317 of the mobile
communicator 315. The output from the data signal separator 2152 is
typically a non product-specific telephone number and a
product-specific code which, in the context of FIG. 3 is shown as
1-800-864-2222 and #1234#, and which may be stored in a signal
storage medium 2154. As distinct from the embodiment in FIG. 9B,
non product-specific contact information, in a form that may
include a telephone number, together with product-specific contact
information that may include a code, is preferably contained within
the non-audio, non-visible output. Alternatively, the non
product-specific contact information may be provided by means other
than the inaudible non-audio content portion, such as preset
contact-information stored in the mobile communicator 315. Such
storage 2154 may be, but need not necessarily be, governed by a
switch 2155 controlled by an operator using an operator interface
2150.
[0499] In the example shown in FIG. 10B, the operator interface
2150 may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says
"CONTACT" as illustrated in FIG. 3, the product-specific contact
information output of data signal separator 2155 is stored in
storage medium 2154.
[0500] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 2156 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 2154 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 2150. The operation of switch
2156 may be similar to that of switch 2155, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 2155 governs storage of the
product-specific contact information output, while switch 2156
governs supply of both the product-specific contact information and
the non product-specific to a transceiver 2157.
[0501] Transceiver 2157 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with a server 318 (FIG.
3), which in turn communicates with database 313 (FIG. 3).
[0502] A GPS device 2158 may be associated with the mobile
communicator 315 and may transmit via the transceiver 2157 the
user's geographic coordinates to the server 314.
[0503] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 3, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 314 (FIG. 3) to establish
contact via transceiver 2157 on the basis of part or all of the
product-specific contact information output from data signal
separator 2162 and the non product-specific contact information
preferably stored in the storage medium 2154.
[0504] FIG. 3 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 315, typically embodied as a cellular telephone or a
WAP phone, to access a product-specific telephone center 330 (FIG.
3) identified by phone number 1-800-WATER4U. In the illustrated
embodiment, this access is achieved via a non product-specific
telephone center, embodied in telephone center 324, which is
accessed via a cellular telephone link by use of a non
product-specific telephone number, such as "1-800-864-2222".
[0505] The non product-specific telephone center 324 (FIG. 3)
preferably maintains an Internet connection with a non
product-specific server 314 as shown in FIG. 3. Upon accessing the
non product-specific telephone center 324 (FIG. 3), the
product-specific contact information, such as a code, may be
transferred to the non product-specific server 314 (FIG. 3) via the
pathway designated as A. The non product-specific server 318 (FIG.
3) may transfer the product-specific contact information, such as a
code, to a database 313 (FIG. 3) via the pathway designated as B.
The code may be matched against the full product-specific
information, shown as 310 in FIG. 3. The product-specific contact
information may be transferred from the database 313 (FIG. 3) via
the pathway designated as C to the non product-specific server 318
(FIG. 3). The non product-specific server 318 (FIG. 3) may transfer
the product-specific contact information to the non
product-specific telephone center 324 (FIG. 3) via the pathway
designated as D. The non product-specific telephone center 324
(FIG. 3) allows contact to be established between the user and a
product-specific telephone center 330 (FIG. 3). Once the user has
accessed the product-specific telephone center 330 identified by
the telephone number 1-800-WATER4U, the user may obtain information
or, as shown in FIG. 3, enter into any appropriate commercial
transaction, such as one which results in water being delivered to
the residence of the user.
[0506] It is appreciated that where the mobile communicator 315
(FIG. 3) is embodied as a WAP enabled phone then the product
specific contact information may be in the form of a web address
such as WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM.
[0507] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 313 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 2152 via a computer
network communication, and from data signal processor 2112.
Database 313 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 2160. The
facilitator 2160 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator 2160 preferably interfaces among and
between a broadcast facility 300 (FIG. 3) a user, a supplier of
goods or services 2162 and various elements of communication
facility 326 (FIG. 3) such as database 313, server 314 and
telephone center 324. The facilitator 2160 may be operated by the
operator of communication facility 326 or by another entity.
[0508] The facilitator 2160 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 300 (FIG. 3) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 2162 and various elements of communication facility 326
(FIG. 3) such as database 313, server 314 and telephone center 324.
Thus it is appreciated that the facilitator 2160 may provide
payment arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility
300 (FIG. 3), a user, a supplier of goods or services 2162 and an
advertiser.
[0509] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 10C, the radio
broadcast facility 300 (FIG. 3), typically a digital broadcast
facility, includes a voice to data processor 2210, receiving an
audio signal input. The output of processor 2210 and a data signal
input are supplied to a digital signal processor 2214, which
combines these outputs with suitable synchronization therebetween
and supplies a combined output to a digital transmitter 2216.
[0510] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the broadcast message, preferably
includes an audible audio content portion and an inaudible
non-audio content portion.
[0511] The digital broadcast message may be received, for example,
by a radio 306 (FIG. 3), typically located in a vehicle. As seen in
FIG. 10C, the radio is a non-standard digital radio including a
digital signal receiver 2220 which outputs to a digital signal
processor 2222. The processed signal is delivered to a digital
signal separator 2224 which is operative to separate the received
digital signal into audio and data portions which are processed
respectively by a data to voice processor 2226 and a data signal
separator 2228. The output of the data to voice processor 2226 may
be heard by a user via a speaker, such as speaker 309 (FIG. 3).
[0512] The output of the data signal separator 2228 may provide a
visible data output to a suitable radio display, such as display
312 (FIG. 3). It is a particular feature of the present invention
that the data signal separator 2228 also provides a non-audio,
non-visible output, which may be stored in a signal storage medium
2230. Such storage may be, but need not necessarily be, governed by
a switch 2232 controlled by an operator using an operator interface
2234.
[0513] In the example shown in FIG. 3, the operator interface 2234
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CAPTURE"
as illustrated in FIG. 3, the non-audio, non-visible output of data
signal separator is stored in storage medium 2230.
[0514] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 2236 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 2230 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 2234. The operation of switch
2236 may be similar to that of switch 2232, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 2232 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 2236 governs supply
thereof to a transceiver 2238.
[0515] The non-audio, non-visible output transmitted by transceiver
2238 may be received by a transceiver 2240 forming part of a mobile
communicator 315 (FIG. 3). It is appreciated that transceivers 2238
and 2240 and the communication link therebetween may be replaced by
any other suitable wired or wireless communication link, such as a
ohmic connection, an IR communication link, a Bluetooth
communication link or another short range communication link.
[0516] The output of transceiver 2240 is preferably supplied to a
data signal processor 2242. The output of the data signal processor
2242 may be supplied to a data signal separator 2244, which may
provide a visible data output which may be displayed on a screen
317 of the mobile communicator 315. The output from the data signal
separator 2244 is typically a non product-specific telephone number
and a product-specific code which, in the context of FIG. 3 is
shown as 1-800-864-2222 and #1234#, and which may be stored in a
signal storage medium 2246. As distinct from the embodiment in FIG.
9C, non product-specific contact information, in a form that may
include a telephone number, together with product-specific contact
information that may include a code, is preferably contained within
the non-audio, non-visible output. Alternatively, the non
product-specific contact information may be provided by means other
than the inaudible non-audio content portion, such as preset
contact information stored in the mobile communicator 315. Such
storage 2246 may be, but need not necessarily be, governed by a
switch 2248 controlled by an operator using an operator interface
2250.
[0517] In the example shown in FIG. 10A, the operator interface
2250 may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says
"CONTACT" as illustrated in FIG. 3, the product-specific contact
information output of data signal separator 2244 is stored in
storage medium 2246.
[0518] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 2252 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 2246 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 2250. The operation of switch
2252 may be similar to that of switch 2248, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 2248 governs storage of the
product-specific contact information output, while switch 2252
governs supply of both the product-specific contact information and
the non product-specific to a transceiver 2254.
[0519] Transceiver 2254 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with a server 318 (FIG.
3), which in turn communicates with database 313 (FIG. 3).
[0520] A GPS device 2255 may be associated with the mobile
communicator and may transmit via the transceiver 2254 the user's
geographic coordinates to the server 318.
[0521] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 3, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 315 (FIG. 3) to establish
contact via transceiver 2254 on the basis of part or all of the
product-specific contact information output from data signal
separator 2244 and the non product-specific contact information
preferably stored in the storage medium 2246.
[0522] FIG. 3 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 315, typically embodied as a cellular telephone or a
WAP phone, to access a product-specific telephone center 330 (FIG.
3) identified by phone number 1-800-WATER4U. In the illustrated
embodiment, this access is achieved via a non product-specific
telephone center, embodied in telephone center 324, which is
accessed via a cellular telephone link by use of a non
product-specific telephone number, such as "1-800-864-2222".
[0523] The non product-specific telephone center 330 preferably
maintains an Internet connection with a non product-specific server
318 as shown in FIG. 3. Upon accessing the non product-specific
telephone center 324, the product-specific contact information,
such as a code, may be transferred to the non product-specific
server 318 via the pathway designated as A. The non
product-specific server 318 may transfer the product-specific
contact information, such as a code, to a database 313 via the
pathway designated as B. The code may be matched against the full
product-specific information, shown as 310 in FIG. 3. The
product-specific contact information may be transferred from the
database 313 via the pathway designated as C to the non
product-specific server 318. The non product-specific server 318
may transfer the product-specific contact information to the non
product-specific telephone center 324 via the pathway designated as
D. The non product-specific telephone center 324 allows contact to
be established between the user and a product-specific telephone
center 330 (FIG. 3). Once the user has accessed the
product-specific telephone center identified by the telephone
number 1-800-WATER4U, the user may obtain information or, as shown
in FIG. 3, enter into any appropriate commercial transaction, such
as one which results in water being delivered to the residence of
the user.
[0524] It is appreciated that where the mobile communicator 315 is
embodied as a WAP enabled phone then the product specific contact
information may be in the form of a web address such as
WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM.
[0525] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 313 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 2244 via a computer
network communication, as from data signal processor 2214. Database
313 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 2256. The
facilitator 2256 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator 2256 preferably interfaces among and
between a broadcast facility 300 (FIG. 3) a user, a supplier of
goods or services 2258 and various elements of communication
facility 326 (FIG. 3) such as database 313, server 314 and
telephone center 324. The facilitator 2256 may be operated by the
operator of communication facility 326 or by another entity.
[0526] The facilitator 2256 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 300 (FIG. 3) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 2258 and various elements of communication facility 326
(FIG. 3) such as database 313, server 314 and telephone center 324.
Thus it is appreciated that the facilitator may provide payment
arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility 300 (FIG.
3), a user, a supplier of goods or services 2258 and an
advertiser.
[0527] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 10D, the radio
broadcast facility 300 (FIG. 3), typically a digital broadcast
facility, includes a voice to data processor 2310, receiving an
audio signal input. Output of processor 2310 and data signal input
are supplied to a signal processor 2314, which combines these
outputs with suitable synthesis therebetween and supplies a
combined output to a transmitter 2316.
[0528] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the digitized broadcast message,
preferably includes an audible audio content portion, and an
inaudible non-audio content portion.
[0529] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
radio 306 (FIG. 3), typically located in a vehicle. As seen in FIG.
10D, the radio is a non-standard radio including a signal receiver
2320 which outputs to a signal processor 2322. The processed signal
is delivered to a signal separator 2324 which is operative to
separate the received signal into audio and data portions which are
processed respectively by a data to voice processor 2326 and a data
signal separator 2328. The output of the data to voice processor
2326 may be heard by a user via a speaker, such as speaker 309
(FIG. 3).
[0530] The output of the signal processor 2324 is supplied to a
data signal separator 2328 which may provide a visible data output
to a suitable radio display, such as display 312 (FIG. 3). The
output from the data signal separator 2328 may be supplied to a
storage medium 2330. It is a particular feature of the present
invention that the data signal separator 2328 also provides a
non-audio, non-visible output, which may be provided to a
transceiver
[0531] The non-audio, non-visible output transmitted by transceiver
2338 may be received by a transceiver 2340 forming part of a mobile
communicator 315 (FIG. 3). It is appreciated that transceivers 2338
and 2340 and the communication link therebetween may be replaced by
any other suitable wired or wireless communication link, such as a
ohmic connection, an IR communication link, a Bluetooth
communication link or another short range communication link.
[0532] The output of transceiver 2340 may be supplied to a storage
medium 2342 but need not necessarily be, governed by a switch 2344
controlled by an operator using an operator interface 2346.
[0533] In the example shown in FIG. 3, the operator interface 2346
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CAPTURE"
as illustrated in FIG. 3, the non-audio, non-visible output of data
signal separator is stored in storage medium 2342.
[0534] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 2348 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 2342 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 2346. The operation of switch
2348 may be similar to that of switch 2344, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 2348 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 2344 governs supply
thereof to a data signal processor 2350.
[0535] The output of the data signal processor 2350 may be supplied
to a data signal separator 2352, which may provide a visible data
output which may be displayed on a screen 317 of the mobile
communicator 315. The output from the data signal separator 2352 is
typically a non product-specific telephone number and a
product-specific code which, in the context of FIG. 3 is shown as
1-800-864-2222 and #1234#, and which may be stored in a signal
storage medium 2356. As distinct from the embodiment in FIG. 10D,
non product-specific contact information, in a form that may
include a telephone number, together with product-specific contact
information that may include a code, is preferably contained within
the non-audio, non-visible output. Alternatively, the non
product-specific contact information may be provided by means other
than the inaudible non-audio content portion, such as preset
contact information stored in the mobile communicator 315. Such
storage 2356 may be, but need not necessarily be, governed by a
switch 2358 controlled by an operator using an operator interface
2360.
[0536] In the example shown in FIG. 10A, the operator interface
2360 may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says
"CONTACT" as illustrated in FIG. 3, the product-specific contact
information output of data signal separator 2352 is stored in
storage medium 2356.
[0537] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 2359 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 2356 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 2360. The operation of switch
2359 may be similar to that of switch 2358, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 2358 governs storage of the
product-specific contact information output, while switch 2359
governs supply of both the product-specific contact information and
the non product-specific to a transceiver 2364.
[0538] Transceiver 2364 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with a server 314 (FIG.
3), which in turn communicates with database 313 (FIG. 3).
[0539] A GPS device 2365 may be associated with the mobile
communicator and may transmit via the transceiver 2364 the user's
geographic coordinates to the server 318.
[0540] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 3, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 315 (FIG. 3) to establish
contact via transceiver 2364 on the basis of part or all of the
product-specific contact information output from data signal
separator 2352 and the non product-specific contact information
preferably stored in the storage medium 2356.
[0541] FIG. 3 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 315, typically embodied as a cellular telephone or a
WAP phone, to access a product-specific telephone center 330 (FIG.
3) identified by phone number 1-800-WATER4U. In the illustrated
embodiment, this access is achieved via a non product-specific
telephone center, embodied in telephone center 324, which is
accessed via a cellular telephone link by use of a non
product-specific telephone number, such as "1-800-864-2222".
[0542] The non product-specific telephone center 324 preferably
maintains an Internet connection with a non product-specific server
318 as shown in FIG. 3. Upon accessing the non product-specific
telephone center 324, the product-specific contact information,
such as a code, may be transferred to the non product-specific
server 318 via the pathway designated as A. The non
product-specific server 318 may transfer the product-specific
contact information, such as a code, to a database 313 via the
pathway designated as B. The code may be matched against the full
product-specific information, shown as 311 in FIG. 3. The
product-specific contact information may be transferred from the
database 313 via the pathway designated as C to the non
product-specific server 318. The non product-specific server 318
may transfer the product-specific contact information to the non
product-specific telephone center 324 via the pathway designated as
D. The non product-specific telephone center 324 allows contact to
be established between the user and a product-specific telephone
center 330 (FIG. 3). Once the user has accessed the
product-specific telephone center identified by the telephone
number 1-800-WATER4U, the user may obtain information or, as shown
in FIG. 3, enter into any appropriate commercial transaction, such
as one which results in water being delivered to the residence of
the user.
[0543] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 313 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 2352 via a computer
network communication, and from data signal processor 2314.
Database 313 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 2367. The
facilitator 2367 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator preferably interfaces among and between a
broadcast facility 300 (FIG. 2) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 2368 and various elements of communication facility 326
(FIG. 2) such as database 313, server 314 and telephone center 324.
The facilitator 2367 may be operated by the operator of
communication facility 326 or by another entity.
[0544] The facilitator preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 300 (FIG. 2) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 2368 and various elements of communication facility 326
(FIG. 2) such as database 313, server 314 and telephone center 324.
Thus it is appreciated that the facilitator may provide payment
arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility 300 (FIG.
2), a user, a supplier of goods or services 2368 and an
advertiser.
[0545] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 10E, the radio
broadcast facility 300 (FIG. 3), typically a FM broadcast facility
having subcarrier broadcast functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS
or a DARC protocol, includes an audio signal processor 2410,
receiving an audio signal input, as well as a data signal processor
2412, receiving a data signal input. Outputs of processors 2410 and
2412 are supplied to a signal synchronizer 2414, which combines
these outputs with suitable synchronization therebetween and
supplies a combined output to a transmitter 2416.
[0546] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the broadcast message, preferably
includes an audible audio content portion and an inaudible
non-audio content portion.
[0547] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
radio 306 (FIG. 3), typically located in a vehicle. As seen in FIG.
10E, the radio may be a conventional RDS enabled radio, such as a
JVC CH-KP950R, including a signal receiver 2420 which outputs to a
signal separator 2422, which is operative to separate the received
signal into audio and data portions which are processed
respectively by an audio signal processor 2424 and a data signal
processor 2426. The output of the audio signal processor 2424 may
be heard by a user via a speaker, such as speaker 309 (FIG. 3) and
the output of the data signal processor 2426 may provide a visible
data output to a suitable radio display, such as display 312 (FIG.
3). Alternatively, radio 306 may be a conventional non-RDS enabled
radio, such as a Pioneer KEH-1900, which does not include a signal
separator or a data signal processor.
[0548] It is typical of conventional radios 306 that a local signal
is transmitted from the signal receiver 2420 over short distances
typically 3 feet. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention, this local signal is employed by a wireless
interface assembly 2427 to provide contact information from the
radio 306 to the mobile communicator 315 (FIG. 3).
[0549] Interface assembly 2427, which is not shown in FIG. 3, may
reside anywhere within the local signal reception range of the
radio 306 and may be a separate element or may be integrated with a
mobile communicator or in any other suitable vehicle element.
[0550] Interface assembly 2427 preferably includes a local signal
receiver 2428, which receives the local signal from radio and
configures a tuner 2429 to the identical frequency of the signal
receiver 2420 in radio 306 (FIG. 3). This allows the signal
receiver 2428 to receive the identical broadcast message as signal
receiver 2420. The tuned frequency number can be made visible on a
display such as an LED display (not shown). It is a particular
feature of the present invention that the frequency of the tuner
2429 may be manually locked by means of a frequency lock 2430 via a
switch 2432 operated by an operator interface 2434, typically a
touch button. The signal receiver 2428 provides the signal received
from the transmitter 2416 to a signal separator 2436 that isolates
therefrom a non-audio, non-visible output. The non-audio,
non-visible output is received by a data signal processor 2438
which outputs to a data signal separator 2440, the output of which
may be stored in a signal storage medium 2442. Such storage may be
but need not necessarily be governed by a switch 2444 controlled by
an operator using an operator interface 2446.
[0551] In the example shown in FIG. 10E, the operator interface
2446 may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says
"CAPTURE" as illustrated in FIG. 3, the non-audio, non-visible
output of data signal separator is stored in storage medium
2442.
[0552] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 2448 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 2442 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 2446. The operation of switch
2442 may be similar to that of switch 2444, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 2444 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 2248 governs supply
thereof to a transceiver 2450.
[0553] The non-audio, non-visible output transmitted by transceiver
2450 may be received by a transceiver 2460 forming part of a mobile
communicator 315 (FIG. 3). It is appreciated that transceivers 2450
and 2460 and the communication link therebetween may be replaced by
any other suitable wired or wireless communication link, such as a
ohmic connection, an IR communication link, a Bluetooth
communication link or another short range communication link.
[0554] The output of transceiver 2460 is preferably supplied to a
data signal processor 2462. The output of the data signal processor
2462 may be supplied to a data signal separator 2464, which may
provide a visible data output which may be displayed on a screen
317 of the mobile communicator 315. The output from the data signal
separator 2464 is typically a non product-specific telephone number
and a product-specific code which, in the context of FIG. 3 is
shown as 1-800-864-2222 and #1234#, and which may be stored in a
signal storage medium 2466. As distinct from the embodiment in FIG.
10E, non product-specific contact information, in a form that may
include a telephone number, together with product-specific contact
information that may include a code, is preferably contained within
the non-audio, non-visible output. Alternatively, the non
product-specific contact information may be provided by means other
than the inaudible non-audio content portion, such as preset
contact information stored in the mobile communicator 315. Such
storage 2466 may be, but need not necessarily be, governed by a
switch 2468 controlled by an operator using an operator interface
2470.
[0555] In the example shown in FIG. 10E, the operator interface
2470 may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says
"CONTACT" as illustrated in FIG. 3, the product-specific contact
information output of data signal separator 2464 is stored in
storage medium 2466.
[0556] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 2472 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 2466 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 2470. The operation of switch
2472 may be similar to that of switch 2468, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 2468 governs storage of the
product-specific contact information output, while switch 2472
governs supply of both the product-specific contact information and
the non product-specific to a transceiver 2474.
[0557] Transceiver 2474 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with a server 315 (FIG.
3), which in turn communicates with database 313 (FIG. 3).
[0558] A GPS device 2476 may be associated with the mobile
communicator and may transmit via the transceiver 2475 the user's
geographic coordinates to the server 314.
[0559] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 3, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 315 (FIG. 3) to establish
contact via transceiver 2475 on the basis of part or all of the
product-specific contact information output from data signal
separator 2464 and the non product-specific contact information
preferably stored in the storage medium 2466.
[0560] FIG. 3 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 315, typically embodied as a cellular telephone or a
WAP phone, to access a product-specific telephone center 330 (FIG.
3) identified by phone number 1-800-WATER4U. In the illustrated
embodiment, this access is achieved via a non product-specific
telephone center, embodied in telephone center 324, which is
accessed via a cellular telephone link by use of a non
product-specific telephone number, such as "1-800-864-2222".
[0561] The non product-specific telephone center 324 preferably
maintains an Internet connection with a non product-specific server
314 as shown in FIG. 3. Upon accessing the non product-specific
telephone center 324, the product-specific contact information,
such as a code, may be transferred to the non product-specific
server 318 via the pathway designated as A. The non
product-specific server 314 may transfer the product-specific
contact information, such as a code, to a database 313 via the
pathway designated as B. The code may be matched against the full
product-specific information, shown as 311 in FIG. 3. The
product-specific contact information may be transferred from the
database 313 via the pathway designated as C to the non
product-specific server 318. The non product-specific server 318
may transfer the product-specific contact information to the non
product-specific telephone center 324 via the pathway designated as
D. The non product-specific telephone center 324 allows contact to
be established between the user and a product-specific telephone
center 330 (FIG. 3). Once the user has accessed the
product-specific telephone center identified by the telephone
number 1-800-WATER4U, the user may obtain information or, as shown
in FIG. 3, enter into any appropriate commercial transaction, such
as one which results in water being delivered to the residence of
the user.
[0562] It is appreciated that where the mobile communicator 315 is
embodied as a WAP enabled phone then the product specific contact
information may be in the form of a web address such as
WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM.
[0563] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 313 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 2464 via a computer
network communication, and from data signal processor 2412.
Database 313 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 2478. The
facilitator 2478 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator 2478 preferably interfaces among and
between a broadcast facility 300 (FIG. 3) a user, a supplier of
goods or services 2480 and various elements of communication
facility 326 (FIG. 3) such as database 313, server 314 and
telephone center 324. The facilitator 2478 may be operated by the
operator of communication facility 326 or by another entity.
[0564] The facilitator 2478 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 300 (FIG. 3) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 2480 and various elements of communication facility 326
(FIG. 3) such as database 313, server 314 and telephone center 324.
Thus it is appreciated that the facilitator may provide payment
arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility 300 (FIG.
3), a user, a supplier of goods or services 2480 and an
advertiser.
[0565] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 10F, the radio
broadcast facility 220 (FIG. 3), typically a FM broadcast facility
having subcarrier broadcast functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS
or a DARC protocol, includes an audio signal processor 2510,
receiving an audio signal input, as well as a data signal processor
2512, receiving a data signal input. Outputs of processors 2511 and
2512 are supplied to a signal synchronizer 2514, which combines
these outputs with suitable synchronization therebetween and
supplies a combined output to a transmitter 2516.
[0566] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the broadcast message, preferably
includes an audible audio content portion and an inaudible
non-audio subcarrier content portion.
[0567] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
radio 306 (FIG. 3), typically located in a vehicle. As seen in FIG.
10F, the radio is a standard radio including a signal receiver 2520
which outputs to a signal separator 2522, which is operative to
separate the received signal into audio and data portions which are
received respectively by an audio signal processor 2524 and a data
signal processor 2526. The output of the audio signal processor
2524 may be heard by a user via a speaker, such as speaker 309
(FIG. 3) and the output of the data signal processor 2526 may
provide a visible data output to a suitable radio display, such as
display 312 (FIG. 3).
[0568] It is typical of conventional radios 306 that a local signal
is transmitted from the signal receiver 2520 over short distances
typically 3 feet. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention, this local signal is employed by a wireless
interface assembly 2527 to provide contact information from the
radio 306 to the mobile communicator 315 (FIG. 3).
[0569] Interface assembly 2527, which is not shown in FIG. 3, may
reside anywhere within the local signal reception range of the
radio 306 and may be a separate element or may be integrated with a
mobile communicator or in any other suitable vehicle element.
[0570] Interface assembly 2527 preferably includes a local signal
receiver 2528, which receives the local signal from radio 306 and
configures a tuner 2526 to the identical frequency of the signal
receiver 2520 in radio 306 (FIG. 3). This allows the signal
receiver 2528 to receive the identical broadcast message as signal
receiver 2520. The tuned frequency number can be made visible on a
display such as an LED display (not shown). It is a particular
feature of the present invention that the frequency of the tuner
2526 may be manually locked by means of a frequency lock 2530 via a
switch 2532 operated by an operator interface 2534, typically a
touch button. Alternatively the frequency lock 2530 maybe operated
automatically.
[0571] The signal receiver 2530 passes on the signal received from
the transmitter 2516 to a signal separator 2536 that separates a
non-audio, non-visible output from the audio signal. The non-audio,
non-visible output is received by a data signal processor 2538 and
is subsequently received by a data signal separator 2540 the output
of which is received by a transceiver 2542.
[0572] The non-audio, non-visible output transmitted by transceiver
2542 may be received by a transceiver 2544 forming part of a mobile
communicator 315 (FIG. 3). It is appreciated that transceivers 2542
and 2544 and the communication link therebetween may be replaced by
any other suitable wired or wireless communication link, such as a
ohmic connection, an IR communication link, a Bluetooth
communication link or another short range communication link.
[0573] The output from the transceiver 2544 may be stored in a
signal storage medium 2546. Such storage may be but need not
necessarily be controlled by a switch 2548 controlled by an
operator using an operator interface 2550.
[0574] In the example shown in FIG. 3, the operator interface 2550
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CAPTURE"
as illustrated in FIG. 3, the non-audio, non-visible output of data
signal separator is stored in storage medium 2546.
[0575] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 2552 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 2546 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 2550. The operation of switch
2552 may be similar to that of switch 2548, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 2548 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 2552 governs supply
thereof to a data signal processor 2562.
[0576] The output of the data signal processor 2562 may be supplied
to a data signal separator 2554, which may provide a visible data
output which may be displayed on a screen of the mobile
communicator 315. The output from the data signal separator 2554 is
typically a product-specific code which, in the context of FIG. 3
is shown as #1234#, and which may be stored in a signal storage
medium 2556. As distinct from the embodiment in FIG. 10F, non
product-specific contact information is not necessarily contained
within the non-audio, non-visible output and may be provided by
means other than the inaudible non-audio content portion, such as
by a cookie. The non product-specific contact information may also
be stored in signal storage medium 2556. In the context of FIG. 3,
the non-product specific contact information may include, for
example, a web address such as "WWW.PORTAL.COM" and/or a telephone
number, such as 1-800-864-2222. Such storage may be, but need not
necessarily be, governed by a switch 2558 controlled by an operator
using an operator interface 2560.
[0577] In the example shown in FIG. 10F, the operator interface
2560 may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says
"CONTACT" as illustrated in FIG. 3, the product-specific contact
information output of data signal separator 2554 is stored in
storage medium 2556.
[0578] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 2562 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 2556 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 2560. The operation of switch
2562 may be similar to that of switch 2558, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 2558 governs storage of the
product-specific contact information output, while switch 2562
governs supply of both the product-specific contact information and
the non product-specific to a transceiver 2564.
[0579] Transceiver 2564 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with a server 318 (FIG.
3), which in turn communicates with database 313 (FIG. 3).
[0580] A GPS device 2565 may be associated with the mobile
communicator may transmit the user's geographic coordinates to the
server.
[0581] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 3, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 315 (FIG. 3) to establish
contact via transceiver 2564 on the basis of part or all of the
product-specific contact information output from data signal
separator 2554 and the non product-specific contact information
preferably stored in the storage medium 2556.
[0582] FIG. 3 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 315 typically embodied as a web-enabled wireless
personal digital assistant, to access a product-specific web site
328 (FIG. 3) identified by the web address WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM. In
the illustrated embodiment, this access is achieved via a non
product-specific server, embodied in server 318, which is accessed
via the Internet by use of a non product-specific web address, such
as "WWW.PORTAL.COM".
[0583] Upon accessing the non product-specific web server 318, the
product-specific contact information, such as a code, may be
transferred to the database 313 via the pathway designated as A.
The code may be matched against the full product-specific
information, shown as 311 in FIG. 3. The product-specific contact
information may be transferred from the database 313 via the
pathway designated as B to the non product-specific server 318. The
non product-specific server 318 allows contact to be established
between the user and a product-specific server 328 (FIG. 3). Once
the user has accessed the product-specific web site identified by
the web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may obtain
information or, as shown in FIG. 3, enter into any appropriate
commercial transaction, such as one which results in water being
delivered to the residence of the user.
[0584] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 313 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 2554 via a computer
network communication, as from data signal processor 2562. Database
313 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 2567. The
facilitator 2567 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator preferably interfaces among and between a
broadcast facility 300 (FIG. 3) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 2568 and various elements of communication facility 326
(FIG. 3) such as database 313, server 318 and telephone center 324.
The facilitator 2567 may be operated by the operator of
communication facility 326 or by another entity.
[0585] The facilitator 2567 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 300 (FIG. 3) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 2568 and various elements of communication facility 326
(FIG. 3) such as database 313, server 318 and telephone center 324.
Thus it is appreciated that the facilitator may provide payment
arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility 300 (FIG.
3), a user, a supplier of goods or services 2568 and an
advertiser.
[0586] Reference is now made to FIGS. 11A AND 11B, are simplified
functional block diagrams of six alternative embodiments of the
system of FIG. 4. As seen in FIG. 11A, there is provided a system
and methodology of the type shown in FIG. 4, wherein a commercial
message is broadcast by a radio broadcast facility, such as an FM
or digital broadcast facility.
[0587] In tile illustrated embodiment of FIG. 11A, the radio
broadcast facility 400 (FIG. 4), typically a short range digital
broadcast facility such as a Bluetooth transmitter associated with
a static or mobile billboard, includes a voice to data processor
2610, receiving an audio signal input. The output of processor 2610
and a data signal input are supplied to a digital signal processor
2614, which combines these outputs with suitable synchronization
therebetween and supplies a combined output to a digital
transmitter 2616.
[0588] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the broadcast message, preferably
includes an audible audio content portion 403, and an inaudible
non-audio content portion 404.
[0589] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
Bluetooth enabled mobile communicator 405 (FIG. 4), which, in the
embodiment shown in FIG. 4 is located in a vehicle 402 (FIG. 4). In
distinction to the embodiments described previously, a radio 410
(FIG. 4) co-located within same vehicle 402 (FIG. 4) may not be a
direct recipient of the broadcast message from the broadcast
facility 400 (FIG. 4). It is appreciated that if the radio 410 is a
Bluetooth enabled radio that it may also be a recipient of all or
part of the broadcast message from the broadcast facility 400 (FIG.
4). The broadcast message output transmitted by digital transceiver
2616 may be received by a digital transceiver 2640, such as a
Bluetooth transceiver, forming part of a mobile communicator 405
(FIG. 4).
[0590] The output of digital transceiver 2640 may be supplied to a
storage medium 2642 but need not necessarily be, governed by a
switch 2644 controlled by an operator using an operator interface
2646.
[0591] In the example shown in FIG. 11A, the operator interface
2646 may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says
"CAPTURE" as illustrated in FIG. 4, the output of data signal
separator is stored in storage medium 2642.
[0592] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 2648 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 2642 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 2646. The operation of switch
2648 may be similar to that of switch 2644, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 2644 governs storage of the output,
while switch 2648 governs supply thereof to a data signal processor
2650.
[0593] The output of the data signal processor 2650 may be supplied
to a data signal separator 2654, which may provide a visible data
output of part or all of the non-audio, non-visible portion of the
broadcast message, which may be displayed on a screen 412 of the
mobile communicator 405 (FIG. 4). Data signal separator 2654 may
additionally provide an audio output of part or all of the audio,
portion of the broadcast message, which may be heard via a speaker
attached to the mobile communicator 405 (FIG. 4).
[0594] The output from the data signal separator 2654 is typically,
but not necessarily, a product-specific code which, in the context
of FIG. 4 is shown as #1234#, and non product-specific contact
information which, in the context of FIG. 4 is shown as a non
product-specific web address, http://WWW.PORTAL.COM and a non
product-specific telephone number, 1-800-864-2222, and which may be
stored in a signal storage medium 2661. The non product-specific
contact information is not necessarily contained within the
non-audio, non-visible output and may be provided by means other
than the inaudible non-audio content portion, such as by a cookie
or SMS.
[0595] Such storage may be, but need not necessarily be, governed
by a switch 2658 controlled by an operator using an operator
interface 2660.
[0596] In the example shown in FIG. 11A, the operator interface
2660 may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says
"CONTACT" as illustrated in FIG. 4, the product-specific contact
information output of data signal separator 2654 is stored in
storage medium 2661.
[0597] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 2662 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 2661 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 2660. The operation of switch
2662 may be similar to that of switch 2658, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 2658 governs storage of the
product-specific contact information output, while switch 2662
governs supply of both the product-specific contact information and
the non product-specific to a transceiver 2664.
[0598] Transceiver 2664 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with a server 409409
(FIG. 4), which in turn communicates with database 408 (FIG.
4).
[0599] A GPS device 2665 may be associated with the mobile
communicator 405 and may transmit the user's geographic coordinates
to the server 409 via the transceiver 2664.
[0600] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 4, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 405 (FIG. 4) to establish
contact via transceiver 2664 on the basis of part or all of the
product-specific contact information output from data signal
separator 2654 and the non product-specific contact information
preferably stored in the storage medium 2661.
[0601] FIG. 11A shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 405, typically embodied as a Bluetooth-enabled
personal digital assistant with wireless connectivity to the
Internet, to access a product-specific web site 430 (FIG. 4)
identified by the web address WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM. In the
illustrated embodiment, this access is achieved via a non
product-specific server, embodied in server 409, which is accessed
via the Internet by use of a non product-specific web address, such
as "WWW.PORTAL.COM".
[0602] Upon accessing the non product-specific web server 409, the
product-specific contact information, such as a code, may be
transferred to the database 408 via the pathway designated as A.
The code may be matched against the full product-specific
information, shown as 406 in FIG. 4. The product-specific contact
information may be transferred from the database 408 via the
pathway designated as B to the non product-specific server 409. The
non product-specific server 409 allows contact to be established
between the user and a product-specific server 430 (FIG. 4). Once
the user has accessed the product-specific web site identified by
the web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may obtain
information or, as shown in FIG. 4, enter into any appropriate
commercial transaction, such as one which results in water being
delivered to the residence of the user.
[0603] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 408 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 2654 via a computer
network communication, and from data signal processor 2614.
Database 408 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 2667. The
facilitator 2667 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator 2667 preferably interfaces among and
between a broadcast facility 400 (FIG. 4) a user, a supplier of
goods or services 2668 and various elements of communication
facility 434 (FIG. 4) such as database 408, server 409 and
telephone center 418. The facilitator 2667 may be operated by the
operator of communication facility 434 or by another entity.
[0604] The facilitator 2667 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 400 (FIG. 4) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 2668 and various elements of communication facility 434
(FIG. 4) such as database 408, server 409 and telephone center 418.
Thus it is appreciated that the facilitator may provide payment
arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility 400 (FIG.
4), a user, a supplier of goods or services 2668 and an
advertiser.
[0605] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 11B, the radio
broadcast facility 400 (FIG. 4), typically a short range digital
broadcast facility such as a Bluetooth transmitter associated with
a static or mobile billboard, includes a voice to data processor
2710, receiving an audio signal input. The output of processor 2710
and a data signal input are supplied to a digital signal processor
2714, which combines these outputs with suitable synchronization
therebetween and supplies a combined output to a digital
transmitter 2716.
[0606] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the broadcast message, preferably
includes an audible audio content portion and an inaudible
non-audio content portion.
[0607] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
Bluetooth enabled mobile communicator 405 (FIG. 4), which, in the
embodiment shown in FIG. 4 is located in a vehicle 402 (FIG. 4). In
distinction to the embodiments described previously, a radio 410
(FIG. 4) co-located within same vehicle 402 may not be a direct
recipient of the broadcast message from the broadcast facility 400
(FIG. 4). It is appreciated that if the radio 410 is a Bluetooth
enabled radio that it may also be a recipient of all or part of the
broadcast message from the broadcast facility 400 (FIG. 4).
[0608] The broadcast message output transmitted by digital
transceiver 2716 may be received by a digital transceiver 2740,
such as a Bluetooth transceiver, forming part of a mobile
communicator 405 (FIG. 4).The output of digital transceiver 2740
may be supplied to a storage medium 2742, but need not necessarily
be, governed by a switch 2744 controlled by an operator using an
operator interface 2746.
[0609] In the example shown in FIG. 11B, the operator interface
2746 may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says
"CAPTURE" as illustrated in FIG. 4, the non-audio, non-visible
output of data signal separator is stored in storage medium
2742.
[0610] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 2748 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 2742 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 2746. The operation of switch
2744 may be similar to that of switch 2744, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 2748 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 2748 governs supply
thereof to a data signal processor 2750.
[0611] The output of the data signal processor 2750 may be supplied
to a data signal separator 2754, which may provide a visible data
output which may be displayed on a screen 412 of the mobile
communicator 405. The output from the data signal separator 2754 is
typically, but not necessarily, a product-specific code which, in
the context of FIG. 4 is shown as #1234#, and non product-specific
contact information which, in the context of FIG. 4 is shown as a
non product-specific web address, WWW.PORTAL.COM and a non
product-specific telephone number, 1-800-864-2222, and which may be
stored in a signal storage medium 2756. The non product-specific
contact information is not necessarily contained within the
non-audio, non-visible output and may be provided by means other
than the inaudible non-audio content portion, such as by a cookie
or SMS. Such storage may be, but need not necessarily be, governed
by a switch 2758 controlled by an operator using an operator
interface 2760.
[0612] In the example shown in FIG. 11B, the operator interface
2760 may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says
"CONTACT" as illustrated in FIG. 4, the product-specific contact
information output of data signal separator 2754 is stored in
storage medium 2756.
[0613] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 2762 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 2756 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 2760. The operation of switch
2762 may be similar to that of switch 2758, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 2758 governs storage of the
product-specific contact information output, while switch 2762
governs supply of both the product-specific contact information and
the non product-specific to a transceiver 2764.
[0614] Transceiver 2764 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with a server 409 (FIG.
4), which in turn communicates with database 408 (FIG. 4).
[0615] A GPS device 2765 may be associated with the mobile
communicator 405 and may transmit the user's geographic coordinates
to the server 409 via the transceiver 2764. In the illustrated
embodiment, which is described functionally hereinabove with
reference to FIG. 4, the user may at any time actuate the mobile
communicator 405.
[0616] FIG. 11B to establish contact via transceiver 2764 on the
basis of part or all of the product-specific contact information
output from data signal separator 2754 and the non product-specific
contact information preferably stored in the storage medium
2756.
[0617] FIG. 4 shows an example wherein a user actuates the mobile
communicator 405, typically embodied as a Bluetooth-enabled
personal digital assistant with wireless connectivity via a
cellular provider, to access a product-specific telephone center
432 (FIG. 4) identified by phone number 1-800-WATER4U. In the
illustrated embodiment, this access is achieved via a non
product-specific telephone center, embodied in telephone center
418, which is accessed via a cellular telephone link by use of a
non product-specific telephone number, such as
"1-800-864-2222".
[0618] The non product-specific telephone center 432 preferably
maintains an Internet connection with a non product-specific server
409 as shown in FIG. 4. Upon accessing the non product-specific
telephone center 418, the product-specific contact information,
such as a code, may be transferred to the non product-specific
server 409 via the pathway designated as A. The non
product-specific server 409 may transfer the product-specific
contact information, such as a code, to a database 408 via the
pathway designated as B. The code may be matched against the full
product-specific information, shown as 406 in FIG. 4. The
product-specific contact information may be transferred from the
database 408 via the pathway designated as C to the non
product-specific server 409. The non product-specific server 409
may transfer the product-specific contact information to the non
product-specific telephone center 418 via the pathway designated as
D. The non product-specific telephone center 418 allows contact to
be established between the user and a product-specific telephone
center 432 (FIG. 4). Once the user has accessed the
product-specific telephone center identified by the telephone
number 1-800-WATER4U, the user may obtain information or, as shown
in FIG. 4, enter into any appropriate commercial transaction, such
as one which results in water being delivered to the residence of
the user.
[0619] It is appreciated that where the mobile communicator 405 is
embodied as a WAP enabled phone then the product specific contact
information may be in the form of a web address such as
WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM.
[0620] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 408 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 2754 via a computer
network communication, as from data signal processor 2750. Database
408 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 2766. The
facilitator 2766 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator 2766 preferably interfaces among and
between a broadcast facility 400 (FIG. 4) a user, a supplier of
goods or services 2768 and various elements of communication
facility 434 (FIG. 4) such as database 408, server 409 and
telephone center 418. The facilitator 2766 may be operated by the
operator of communication facility 434 or by another entity.
[0621] The facilitator 2766 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 400 (FIG. 4) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 2768 and various elements of communication facility 434
(FIG. 4) such as database 408, server 409 and telephone center 418.
Thus it is appreciated that the facilitator may provide payment
arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility 400 (FIG.
4), a user, a supplier of goods or services 2768 and an
advertiser.
[0622] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 12A, the radio
broadcast facility 500 (FIG. 5), typically a digital broadcast
facility, includes a voice to data processor 2810, receiving an
audio signal input. Output of processor 2810 and data signal input
are supplied to a digital signal processor 2814, which combines
these outputs with suitable synthesis therebetween and supplies a
combined output to a transmitter 2816.
[0623] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the digitized broadcast message,
preferably includes an audible audio content portion, and an
inaudible non-audio content portion.
[0624] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
radio 510 (FIG. 5), typically located in a vehicle 512 (FIG. 5). As
seen in FIG. 12A, the radio is a digital radio including a digital
signal receiver 2820 which outputs to a digital signal processor
2822. The digital processed signal is delivered to a digital signal
separator 2824 which is operative to separate the received digital
signal into audio and data portions which are received respectively
by a data to voice processor 2826 and a data signal separator 2828.
The output of the data to voice processor 2826 may be heard by a
user via a speaker, such as speaker 514 (FIG. 5).
[0625] The output of the digital signal separator 2824 is supplied
to a data signal separator 2828 which may provide a visible data
output to a suitable radio display, such as display 517 (FIG.
5).
[0626] In contrast to embodiments described hereinabove in FIGS.
8A-8F, 9A-9F, 10A-D, and 11A-B, and further described hereinbelow
in FIGS. 13A-B, in the present embodiment, shown in FIG. 12A, there
need not necessarily be any transfer of information, between a
radio and a mobile communicator.
[0627] Simultaneously, or at any time previous to the transmission
of the broadcast message, contact information 504 (FIG. 5)
pertaining to the broadcast message may be received by a non
product-specific server 506 (FIG. 5) via an Internet communication
from a computer 508 (FIG. 5) associated with broadcasting facility
500 (FIG. 5). The contact information may be stored in a database
520 (FIG. 5).
[0628] A user may receive all or part of the contact information
504 (FIG. 5) by accessing a non product-specific web server, along
pathway labeled A in FIG. 12A, and specifying a radio channel,
preferably the same radio channel as being listened to on radio
510, via a browser (not shown) associated with the mobile
communicator 516 (FIG. 5), using an operator interface 2829. The
non product-specific server web address, shown in FIG. 5 as
WWW.PORTAL.COM", may be loaded into the mobile communicator browser
by such means as manually or orally, or accessed from a storage
medium associated with the mobile communicator 516 (FIG. 5), such a
contact address being previously received by such means as a
cookie.
[0629] In the present embodiment, the mobile communicator 516 (FIG.
5) is preferably a GPRS or 3G communicator able to be
on-line-all-the-time and receive streaming data from an Internet
server, such as designated by the web address WWW.PORTAL.COM".
[0630] Alternatively, the radio station specifications may be
inputted into the mobile communicator 516 by means of an interface
assembly associated with the mobile communicator and described
hereinabove in FIG. 8E. Part or all or the contact information 504
(FIG. 5) may be transmitted from the non product-specific server
506 (FIG. 5) to the transceiver 2830 via communication pathway
labeled B.
[0631] The output of transceiver 2830 may be supplied to a data
signal processor 2850 output of the data signal processor 2850 may
be supplied to a data signal separator 2854, which may provide a
visible data output which may be displayed on a screen 518 (FIG. 5)
of the mobile communicator 516 (FIG. 5). The output from the data
signal separator 2854 is typically non product-specific contact
information, such as a web address and telephone number, and
product-specific web address and product-specific telephone number,
and other information pertaining to the broadcast message and which
may be stored in a signal storage medium 2856. Such storage 2856
may be, but need not necessarily be, governed by a switch 2858
controlled by an operator using an operator interface 2860.
[0632] In the example shown in FIG. 12A, the operator interface
2860 may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says
"CAPTURE" as illustrated in FIG. 5, the contact information from
data signal separator is stored in storage medium 2856.
[0633] A similar operator interface 2860 may activate switch 2862
by speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CONTACT" as
illustrated in FIG. 5, the product-specific contact information
stored in storage medium 2856 may be provided to transceiver 2830.
The contact information, which may or may not include user
identification information, may be transmitted by the transceiver
2830, preferably by wireless modem which is able to communicate
with the non product-specific server 506 (FIG. 5) with web address
designated in FIG. 5 as WWW.PORTAL.COM, via pathway C. The non
product-specific server 506 may in turn communicates with database
520 (FIG. 5). The non product-specific telephone center 506 may
establish connection with a product-specific server 519 with a
product-specific web address designated in FIG. 5 as
WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM.
[0634] A GPS device 2857 may be associated with the mobile
communicator and may transmit via the transceiver 2830 the user's
geographic coordinates to the server 506.
[0635] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 5, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 516 (FIG. 5) to establish
contact via transceiver 2830 on the basis of part or all of the
product-specific contact information output from data signal
separator 2862 and the non product-specific contact information
preferably stored in the storage medium 2856.
[0636] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 520 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 2854 via a computer
network communication, and from data signal processor 2814.
Database 520 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 2867. The
facilitator 2867 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator 2867 preferably interfaces among and
between a broadcast facility 500 (FIG. 5) a user, a supplier of
goods or services 2868 and various elements of communication
facility 526 (FIG. 5) such as database 520, server 506 and
telephone center 524. The facilitator 2867 may be operated by the
operator of communication facility 526 or by another entity.
[0637] The facilitator 2867 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 500 (FIG. 5) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 2868 and various elements of communication facility 526
(FIG. 5) such as database 520, server 506 and telephone center 524.
Thus it is appreciated that the facilitator may provide payment
arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility 500 (FIG.
5), a user, a supplier of goods or services 2868 and an
advertiser.
[0638] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 12B, the radio
broadcast facility 500 (FIG. 5), typically a digital broadcast
facility, includes a voice to data processor 2910, receiving an
audio signal input. Output of processor 2910 and data signal input
are supplied to a digital signal processor 2914, which combines
these outputs with suitable synthesis therebetween and supplies a
combined output to a transmitter 2916.
[0639] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the digitized broadcast message,
preferably includes an audible audio content portion and an
inaudible non-audio content portion.
[0640] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
radio 510 (FIG. 5), typically located in a vehicle 512 (FIG. 5). As
seen in FIG. 12B, the radio is a digital radio including a digital
signal receiver 2920 which outputs to a digital signal processor
2922. The digital processed signal is delivered to a digital signal
separator 2924 which is operative to separate the received digital
signal into audio and data portions which are received respectively
by a data to voice processor 2926 and a data signal separator 2928.
The output of the data to voice processor 2926 may be heard by a
user via a speaker, such as speaker 514 (FIG. 5).
[0641] The output of the digital signal separator 2924 is supplied
to a data signal separator 2928 which may provide a visible data
output to a suitable radio display, such as display 517 (FIG.
5).
[0642] In contrast to embodiments described hereinabove in FIGS.
8A-8F, 9A-9F, 10A-D, and 11A-B, and further described hereinbelow
in FIGS. 13A-B, in the present embodiment, shown in FIG. 12B, there
need not necessarily be any transfer of information, between a
radio and a mobile communicator.
[0643] Simultaneously, or at any time previous to the transmission
of the broadcast message, contact information 504 (FIG. 5)
pertaining to the broadcast message may be received by a non
product-specific server 506 (FIG. 5) via an Internet communication
from a computer 508 (FIG. 5) associated with broadcasting facility
500 (FIG. 5). The contact information may be stored in a database
520 (FIG. 5).
[0644] A user may receive all or part of the contact information
504 (FIG. 5) by accessing a non product-specific web server, along
pathway labeled A in FIG. 12B, and specifying a radio channel,
preferably the same radio channel as being listened to on radio
510, via a browser (not shown) associated with the mobile
communicator 516 (FIG. 5), using an operator interface 2929. The
non product-specific server web address, shown in FIG. 5 as
WWW.PORTAL.COM" may be loaded into the mobile communicator browser
by such means as manually or orally, or accessed from a storage
medium associated with the mobile communicator 516 (FIG. 5), such a
contact address being previously received by such means as a
cookie.
[0645] In the present embodiment, the mobile communicator 516 (FIG.
5) is preferably a GPRS or 3G communicator able to be
on-line-all-the-time and receive streaming data from an Internet
server, such as designated by the web address WWW.PORTAL.COM.
[0646] Alternatively, the radio station specifications may be
inputted into the mobile communicator 516 by means of an interface
assemble associated with the mobile communicator and described
hereinabove in FIG. 8E. Part or all or the contact information 504
(FIG. 5) may be transmitted from the non product-specific server
506 (FIG. 5) to the transceiver 2930 via communication pathway
labeled B.
[0647] The output of transceiver 2930 may be supplied to a data
signal processor 2950. Output of the data signal processor 2950 may
be supplied to a data signal separator 2954, which may provide a
visible data output which may be displayed on a screen 518 (FIG. 5)
of the mobile communicator 516 (FIG. 5). The output from the data
signal separator 2954 is typically non product-specific contact
information, such as a web address and telephone number, and
product-specific web address and product-specific telephone number,
and other information pertaining to the broadcast message and which
may be stored in a signal storage medium 2956. Such storage 2956
may be, but need not necessarily be, governed by a switch 2958
controlled by an operator using an operator interface 2960.
[0648] In the example shown in FIG. 12B, the operator interface
2960 may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says
"CAPTURE" as illustrated in FIG. 5, the contact information from
data signal separator is stored in storage medium 2956.
[0649] A similar operator interface 2960 may activate switch 2962
by speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CONTACT" as
illustrated in FIG. 5, the product-specific contact information
stored in storage medium 2956 may be provided to transceiver 2930.
The contact information, which may or may not include user
identification information, may be transmitted by the transceiver
2930, preferably by wireless modem which is able to communicate via
with a non product-specific telephone center 524 (FIG. 5) with
telephone number designated in FIG. 5 as 1-800-864-2222, via
pathway C. The non product-specific telephone center 524 may
communicate with the non product-specific server 506 which in turn
communicates with database 520 (FIG. 5).
[0650] The non product-specific telephone center 524 may establish
connection with a product-specific telephone center 530 with a
product-specific telephone number designated in FIG. 5 as
1-800-WATER4U.
[0651] A GPS device 2957 may be associated with the mobile
communicator and may transmit via the transceiver 2930 the user's
geographic coordinates to the server 506.
[0652] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 5, the user may at
any time actuate the mobile communicator 516 (FIG. 5) to establish
contact via transceiver 2930 on the basis of part or all of the
product-specific contact information output from data signal
separator 2954 and the non product-specific contact information
preferably stored in the storage medium 2956.
[0653] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 520 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 2954 via a computer
network communication, and from data signal processor 2914.
Database 520 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 2967. The
facilitator 2967 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator 2967 preferably interfaces among and
between a broadcast facility 500 (FIG. 5) a user, a supplier of
goods or services 2968 and various elements of communication
facility 526 (FIG. 5) such as database 520, server 506 and
telephone center 524. The facilitator 2967 may be operated by the
operator of communication facility 526 or by another entity.
[0654] The facilitator preferably 2967 provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 500 (FIG. 5) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 2968 and various elements of communication facility 526
(FIG. 5) such as database 520, server 506 and telephone center 524.
Thus it is appreciated that the facilitator 2967 may provide
payment arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility
500 (FIG. 5), a user, a supplier of goods or services 2968 and an
advertiser.
[0655] Turning to FIG. 13A, there is provided a system and
methodology of the type shown in FIG. 6, wherein a message, here a
commercial message, is broadcast, typically by a radio broadcast
facility, such as an FM broadcast facility.
[0656] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 13A, the radio
broadcast facility 600 (FIG. 6), typically a FM broadcast facility
having subcarrier broadcast functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS
or a DARC protocol, includes an audio signal processor 3210,
receiving an audio signal input, as well as a data signal processor
3212, receiving a data signal input. Outputs of processors 3210 and
3212 are supplied to a signal synchronizer 3214, which combines
these outputs with suitable synchronization therebetween and
supplies a combined output to a transmitter 3216.
[0657] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the broadcast message, preferably
includes an audible audio content portion and an inaudible
non-audio content portion.
[0658] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
computerized integrated vehicle system 606 (FIG. 6), typically
located in a vehicle 608. As seen in FIG. 13A, the computerized
integrated vehicle system may contain an integrated 606 radio
including a signal receiver 3220 which outputs to a signal
separator 3222, which is operative to separate the received signal
into audio and data portions which are perceived respectively by an
audio signal processor 3224 and a data signal processor 3226. The
output of the audio signal processor 3224 may be heard by a user
via a speaker, such as speaker 610 (FIG. 6).
[0659] The output of the data signal processor 3226 is supplied to
a data signal separator 3228 which may provide a visible data
output to a suitable radio display, such as display 613 (FIG. 6).
It is a particular feature of the present invention that the data
signal separator 3228 also provides a non-audio, non-visible
output, which may be stored in a storage medium 3242. Such storage
may be, but need not necessarily be, governed by a switch 3244
controlled by an operator using an operator interface 3246.
[0660] In the example shown in FIG. 6, the operator interface 3246
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CAPTURE"
as illustrated in FIG. 6, the non-audio, non-visible output of data
signal separator is stored in storage medium 3242.
[0661] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 3248 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 3242 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 3246. The operation of switch
3248 may be similar to that of switch 3244, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 3244 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 3248 governs supply
thereof to a data signal processor 3250.
[0662] The output of the data signal processor 3250 may be supplied
to a data signal separator 3252, which may provide a visible output
which may be displayed on a screen 613 of the computerized
integrated vehicle system 606 (FIG. 6) and also provides a contact
information output, which may be stored in a signal storage medium
3254. In the context of FIG. 6, the contact information output may
include, for example, a product-specific web address, such as
WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM, a product-specific telephone number, such as
1-800-WATER4U, a non product-specific web address, such as
WWW.PORTAL.COM, or a non product-specific telephone number, such as
1-800-864-2222. Such storage may be, but need not necessarily be,
governed by a switch 3256 controlled by an operator using an
operator interface 3258.
[0663] In the example shown in FIG. 6, the operator interface 3258
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CONTACT"
as illustrated in FIG. 6, the contact information output is stored
in storage medium 3254.
[0664] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 3260 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 3254 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 3258. The operation of switch
3260 may be similar to that of switch 3256, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 3256 governs storage of the contact
information output, while switch 3260 governs supply thereof to a
transceiver 3262.
[0665] Transceiver 3262 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with server 619 (FIG.
6), which in turn communicates with a database 620 (FIG. 6).
Typically a GPS device 608 (FIG. 6), associated with the
computerized integrated vehicle system 606 (FIG. 6), may supply
transceiver 3262 with the user's geographic coordinates.
[0666] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 6, the user may at
any time actuate the integrated mobile communicator within the
computerized integrated vehicle system 606 (FIG. 6) to establish
contact via transceiver 3262 on the basis of part or all of the
contact information output from data signal separator 3252.
[0667] FIG. 6 shows an example wherein a user actuates the
integrated mobile communicator within the computerized integrated
vehicle system 606 (FIG. 6) to access a web site identified by the
web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM" which forms part of the
product-specific content information output. In the illustrated
embodiment, this access is achieved via a non product-specific
portal, embodied in server 619 (FIG. 6), which is accessed via the
Internet by use of a non product-specific web address, such as
"WWW.PORTAL.COM". The non product-specific web address need not be
broadcast and is typically stored in the computerized integrated
vehicle system 606 (FIG. 6), such as by means of a cookie.
Alternatively, the non product-specific web address may be
broadcast as part of content portion 647 (FIG. 6) or otherwise.
[0668] An additional switch operator 3264 governed by operator
interface 3266 may be speech actuated, such that when the operator
says "TRANSFER" as illustrated in FIG. 6, the non-audio,
non-visible output may be supplied from the storage medium 3242 to
a further transceiver 3268 that may transfer the content
information to a suitably enabled mobile communicator 614 (FIG. 6).
It is appreciated that the transceiver 3268 and the communication
link therebetween may be replaced by any other suitable wired or
wireless communication link, such as a ohmic connection, an IR
communication link, a Bluetooth communication link or another short
range communication link.
[0669] Once the user has accessed the product-specific web site
identified by the web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may
obtain information or, as shown in FIG. 6 enter into any
appropriate commercial transaction, such as one which results in
water being delivered to the residence of the user.
[0670] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 620 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 3252 or via a
computer network communication, as from data signal processor 3212.
Database 620 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 3270. The
facilitator 3270 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator preferably interfaces among and between a
broadcast facility 600 (FIG. 6) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 3272 and various elements of communication facility 626
(FIG. 6) such as database 620, server 619 and telephone center 624.
The facilitator 3270 may be operated by the operator of
communication facility 626 or by another entity.
[0671] The facilitator 3270 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 600 (FIG. 6) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 3272 and various elements of communication facility 626
(FIG. 6) such as database 620, server 619 and telephone center 624.
Thus it is appreciated that the facilitator 3270 may provide
payment arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility
600 (FIG. 6), a user, a supplier of goods or services 3272 and an
advertiser.
[0672] Turning to FIG. 13B, there is provided a system and
methodology of the type shown in FIG. 6, wherein a message, here a
commercial message, is broadcast, typically by a radio broadcast
facility, such as an FM broadcast facility.
[0673] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 13B, the radio
broadcast facility 600 (FIG. 6), typically a FM broadcast facility
having subcarrier broadcast functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS
or a DARC protocol, includes an audio signal processor 3310,
receiving an audio signal input, as well as a data signal processor
3312, receiving a data signal input. Outputs of processors 3310 and
3312 are supplied to a signal synchronizer 3314, which combines
these outputs with suitable synchronization therebetween and
supplies a combined output to a transmitter 3316.
[0674] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the broadcast message, preferably
includes an audible audio content portion, and an inaudible
non-audio content portion.
[0675] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
computerized integrated vehicle system 606 (FIG. 6), typically
located in a vehicle 608. As seen in FIG. 13B, the computerized
integrated vehicle system may contain an integrated 606 radio
including a signal receiver 3320 which outputs to a signal
separator 3322, which is operative to separate the received signal
into audio and data portions which are perceived respectively by an
audio signal processor 3324 and a data signal processor 3326. The
output of the audio signal processor 3324 may be heard by a user
via a speaker, such as speaker 610 (FIG. 6).
[0676] The output of the data signal processor 3326 is supplied to
a data signal separator 3328 which may provide a visible data
output to a suitable radio display, such as display 613 (FIG. 6).
It is a particular feature of the present invention that the data
signal separator 3328 also provides a non-audio, non-visible
output, which may be stored in a storage medium 3342. Such storage
may be, but need not necessarily be, governed by a switch 3344
controlled by an operator using an operator interface 3346. In the
example shown in FIG. 6, the operator interface 3346 may be speech
actuated, such that when the operator says "CAPTURE" as illustrated
in FIG. 6, the non-audio, non-visible output of data signal
separator is stored in storage medium 3342.
[0677] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 3348 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 3342 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 3346. The operation of switch
3348 may be similar to that of switch 3344, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 3344 governs storage of the
non-audio, non-visible output, while switch 3348 governs supply
thereof to a data signal processor 3350.
[0678] The output of the data signal processor 3350 may be supplied
to a data signal separator 3352, which may provide a visible output
which may be displayed on a screen 613 of the computerized
integrated vehicle system 606 (FIG. 6) and also provides a contact
information output, which may be stored in a signal storage medium
3354. In the context of FIG. 6, the contact information output may
include, for example, a product-specific web address, such as
WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM, a product-specific telephone number, such as
1-800-WATER4U, a non product-specific web address, such as
WWW.PORTAL.COM, or a non product-specific telephone number, such as
1-800-864-2222. Such storage may be, but need not necessarily be,
governed by a switch 3356 controlled by an operator using an
operator interface 3358.
[0679] In the example shown in FIG. 6, the operator interface 3358
may be speech actuated, such that when the operator says "CONTACT"
as illustrated in FIG. 6, the contact information output is stored
in storage medium 3354.
[0680] Additionally or alternatively, a switch 3360 may be provided
at an output of storage medium 3354 and may be actuated by an
operator using operator interface 3358. The operation of switch
3360 may be similar to that of switch 3356, the only difference in
their effect being that switch 3356 governs storage of the contact
information output, while switch 3360 governs supply thereof to a
transceiver 3362.
[0681] Transceiver 3362 preferably includes a wireless modem which
is enabled to communicate via the Internet with server 619 (FIG.
6), which in turn communicates with a database 620 (FIG. 6).
Typically a GPS device 608 (FIG. 6), associated with the
computerized integrated vehicle system 606 (FIG. 6), may supply
transceiver 3362 with the user's geographic coordinates.
[0682] In the illustrated embodiment, which is described
functionally hereinabove with reference to FIG. 6, the user may at
any Lime actuate the integrated mobile communicator within the
computerized integrated vehicle system 606 (FIG. 6) to establish
contact via transceiver 3362 on the basis of part or all of the
contact information output from data signal separator 3352.
[0683] FIG. 13B shows an example wherein a user actuates the
integrated mobile communicator within the computerized integrated
vehicle system 606 (FIG. 6) to access a product-specific telephone
center 617 (FIG. 6) identified by the telephone number
1-800-WATER4U which forms part of the product-specific content
information output. In the illustrated embodiment, this access is
achieved via a non product-specific telephone center 624 (FIG. 6),
which is accessed via the non product-specific telephone number,
such as 1-800-864-2222. The non product-specific telephone number
need not be broadcast and is typically stored in the computerized
integrated vehicle system 606 (FIG. 6), such as by means of a
cookie. Alternatively, the telephone number may be broadcast as
part of content portion 647 (FIG. 6) or otherwise.
[0684] An additional switch operator 3364 governed by operator
interface 3366 may be speech actuated, such that when the operator
says "TRANSFER" as illustrated in FIG. 6, the non-audio,
non-visible output may be supplied from the storage medium 3342 to
a further transceiver 3368 that may transfer the content
information to a suitably enabled mobile communicator 614 (FIG. 6).
It is appreciated that the transceiver 3368 and the communication
link therebetween may be replaced by any other suitable wired or
wireless communication link, such as a ohmic connection, an IR
communication link, a Bluetooth communication link or another short
range communication link.
[0685] Once the user has accessed the product-specific web site
identified by the telephone number "1-800-WATER4U", the user may
obtain information or, as shown in FIG. 6 enter into any
appropriate commercial transaction, such as one which results in
water being delivered to the residence of the user.
[0686] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 620 may receive all or part of the content
information output from data signal separator 3352 or via a
computer network communication, as from data signal processor 3312.
Database 620 is preferably operative to collect and correlate user
information and activities in connection with given contact
information and to communicate with a facilitator 3370. The
facilitator 3370 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator 3370 preferably interfaces among and
between a broadcast facility 600 (FIG. 6) a user, a supplier of
goods or services 3372 and various elements of communication
facility 626 (FIG. 6) such as database 620, server 619 and
telephone center 624. The facilitator 3370 may be operated by the
operator of communication facility 626 or by another entity.
[0687] The facilitator 3370 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 600 (FIG. 6) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 3372 and various elements of communication facility 626
(FIG. 6) such as database 620, server 619 and telephone center 624.
Thus it is appreciated that the facilitator 3370 may provide
payment arrangements between two or more of a broadcast facility
600 (FIG. 6), a user, a supplier of goods or services 3372 and an
advertiser.
[0688] Reference is now made to FIG. 14 is a simplified functional
block diagram of an embodiments of the system of FIG. 7. As seen in
FIG. 14, there is provided a system and methodology of the type
shown in FIG. 7, wherein a commercial message is broadcast by a
radio broadcast facility, such as an FM or digital broadcast
facility.
[0689] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 14, the radio
broadcast facility 700 (FIG. 2), typically a FM broadcast facility
having subcarrier broadcast functionality, such as via a RDS, RBDS
or a DARC protocol, includes an audio signal processor 3410,
receiving an audio signal input, as well as a data signal processor
3412, receiving a data signal input. Outputs of processors 3410 and
3412 are supplied to a signal synchronizer 3414, which combines
these outputs with suitable synchronization therebetween and
supplies a combined output to a transmitter 3416.
[0690] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the broadcast message preferably
includes an audible audio content portion and an inaudible
non-audio content portion.
[0691] The broadcast message may be received, for example, by a
signal receiver 3418 (FIG. 7), typically located in a headend
facility 704. As seen in FIG. 14, the signal receiver 3418 which
outputs to a signal separator 3420, which is operative to separate
the received signal into audio and data portions which are received
respectively by an audio signal processor 3422 and a data signal
processor 3424. The data signal processor 3424 may be received by a
data signal separator 3426 that enables part if not all of the
inaudible non-audio content portion to be displayed or otherwise
viewed. The output of the audio signal processor 3422 and the
output of the data signal separator 3426 may be passed to a signal
synchronizer 3428. A cable headend processor 3430 may receive both
the audible audio content and the inaudible non-audio content for
simultaneous transmission via broadband cable, where the inaudible
non-audio content portion may be configured for cable radio
reception and the audible audio content portion may be configured
for cable television reception or cable PC reception. After passing
through a downstream gate 3432 at the headend facility 704 (FIG. 7)
the signals, that may be multiplexed signals, may be passed by a
cable connection to a downstream gate 3434 situated in a user end
facility, which is a residential facility 706 as shown in FIG.
7.
[0692] The output of the downstream gate 3434 is supplied to a
distributor box 707 (FIG. 7), which may be a set top box. The
distributor box 707 (FIG. 7) may distribute the signals to various
cable-enabled appliances, such as a television 708, radio 710 and
personal computer 728, as shown in FIG. 7.
[0693] In the example shown in FIG. 7, a user hears all or part of
the audio content of the broadcast message 701 on the cable radio
710 (FIG. 7) simultaneous to which the user views all or part of
the data content portion 712 (FIG. 7) on the television 708 (FIG.
7) or the PC 709 (FIG. 7). The data content portion appears in a
form that may be teletext and may allow for hyperlinking. In FIG. 7
this is shown on the cable-enabled television 708, by way of
example, as "FREE WATER". The hyperlink allows connection via the
Internet to the non product-server 7738 (FIG. 7) with a non
product-specific address such as WWW.PORTAL.COM. The user may wish
to respond to such an offer by capturing the information and
establishing contact with a product-specific web site, such as
WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM. The user, using an operator interface, such as
a remote device 722 (FIG. 7) that may be actuated manual or orally,
may click on the designated area of the television display causing
all or part of the data content information to be relayed back to
the headend facility 704 via the distributor 707 (FIG. 7) and the
upsteam gates 3436 and 3438. The headend facility 704 (FIG. 7) may
access the product-specific server 724 (FIG. 7) via the non
product-specific web server 720 (FIG. 7). In the example
illustrated in FIG. 7 the product-specific data content is in the
form of a code, such as #1234#.
[0694] It is appreciated that the distributor box 707, the TV 708,
or the PC 709 may possess storage abilities that may allow a number
of captured messages to be stored before accessing them over the
Internet.
[0695] Upon accessing the non product-specific web server 720, the
product-specific contact information, such as a code, may be
transferred to the database 728 via the pathway designated as A.
The code may be matched against the full product-specific
information, shown as 711 in FIG. 7. The product-specific contact
information may be transferred from the database 728 via the
pathway designated as B to the non product-specific server 720. The
non product-specific server 720 allows contact to be established
between the user and a product-specific server 724 (FIG. 7). Once
the user has accessed the product-specific web site identified by
the web address "WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM", the user may obtain
information or, as shown in FIG. 7, enter into any appropriate
commercial transaction, such as one which results in water being
delivered to the residence of the user.
[0696] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, database 728 may receive all or part of the content
information output from the broadcast facility 700 (FIG. 7) via a
computer network communication, as from a computer 713 (FIG. 7).
Alternatively, the database 728 may receive all or part of the
content information from the cable headend facility 704.
[0697] It is appreciated that the contact information may also be
supplied to the headend facility 704 from the database 728 directly
from the broadcasting facility 700 (FIG. 7) via a computer network
communication, as from a computer 713 (FIG. 7). From the headend
facility 704 (FIG. 7) the contact information may be supplied to
the residential facility 706 (FIG. 7) as previously described.
[0698] Database 728 is preferably operative to collect and
correlate user information and activities in connection with given
contact information and to communicate with a facilitator 3440. The
facilitator 3440 may have multiple functionalities which may be
combined in a single entity or divided among various separate
entities. The facilitator 3440 preferably interfaces among and
between a broadcast facility 700 (FIG. 7) a user, a supplier of
goods or services 3442 and various elements of communication
facility 736 (FIG. 7) such as database 728 and server 720. The
facilitator 3440 may be operated by the operator of communication
facility 736 or by another entity.
[0699] The facilitator 3440 preferably provides at least one of
coordination and financial arrangements between one or more of a
broadcast facility 700 (FIG. 7) a user, a supplier of goods or
services 3442 and various elements of communication facility 736
(FIG. 7) such as database 728 and server 720. Thus it is
appreciated that the facilitator may provide payment arrangements
between two or more of a broadcast facility 700 (FIG. 7) a user, a
supplier of goods or services 3442 and an advertiser.
[0700] Reference is now made to FIG. 22, which is a simplified
flowchart of a first part of the functionality common to FIGS. 1-7.
FIG. 22 illustrates interaction between at least one broadcast
facility such as, for example, broadcast facility 100 in FIG. 1, at
least one non-product specific communication facility, such as, for
example, non product-specific communication facility 130 in FIG. 1
and at least one product-specific communication facility, such as,
for example, a product-specific communication facility embodied in
a server such as server 118 or a telephone center such as telephone
center 120 in the embodiment of FIG. 1, in accordance with a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0701] As seen in FIG. 22, a broadcast schedule for broadcasts is
preferably established by coordination between one or more
facilitators and one or more broadcast facilities. Typically, this
broadcast schedule includes broadcast of plural product-specific
messages for plural advertisers and/or suppliers for interaction
via at least one non-product specific communication facility.
[0702] Preferably prior to broadcast of the product-specific
messages, interactive information relating to each broadcast is
supplied, typically other than by broadcast to at least one
non-product specific communication facility and optionally to one
or more product specific communication facilities. This interactive
information enables the non-product specific communication facility
to automatically respond to contact commands provided by the user.
Similarly, the interactive information provided to the
product-specific communication facilities enables them to
automatically respond to product-specific contacts established
therewith by a user, typically via the non-product specific
communication facility.
[0703] Reference is now made to FIG. 23 which is a simplified
flowchart of a second part of the functionality common to FIGS.
1-7. FIG. 23 illustrates interaction between the broadcast
facility, such as, for example, broadcast facility 100 in the
embodiment of FIG. 1 and listeners to its broadcasts, such as
listeners listening using a radio 106, as in the embodiment of FIG.
1. The broadcast facility broadcasts plural interactive
product-specific messages, the contents of which may be, for
example, of any of the types shown in FIGS. 1-7 and designated by
reference numerals 102, 104, 202, 204, 302, 304, 402, 404, 502,
602, 604, 701 and 712.
[0704] In the embodiments of FIGS. 1-4, 6 and 7, the product
specific messages contain both audio and non-audio portions. In the
embodiment of FIG. 5, the product-specific messages contain only
audio portions.
[0705] In all of the embodiments of FIGS. 1-3 and 5-7, the user
hears the audio portion. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, which
illustrates a billboard, the user need not hear an audio
portion.
[0706] The user may, upon either hearing the audio portion of a
product-specific message, as in the embodiments of FIGS. 1-3 and
5-7 or seeing a visual message, request capture of a non-audio
portion of the product-specific message. In response to a user
CAPTURE command, the non-audio portion of the product-specific
message is transferred to a mobile communicator, such as mobile
communicator 114 in the embodiment of FIG. 1. It is noted that in
the embodiment of FIG. 6, the scenario is somewhat different, in
that capture is carried out internally of a computerized integrated
vehicle information system 606 and the non-audio portions of
product-specific messages may be transferred to a mobile
communicator in response to a user's TRANSFER command.
[0707] At a user's initiative, interactive contact may be
established based on information contained in the non-audio portion
of the product-specific message. The functionality of that contact
is described hereinbelow with respect to FIG. 24.
[0708] Reference is now made to FIG. 25 which illustrates data set
preparation employed in the embodiment of FIG. 22 and FIGS. 1-7.
Priori to a broadcasting facility broadcasting a message, at least
two data sets may be prepared of information fields containing,
amongst other possible information, pertinent contact information,
pertinent product information, pertinent timing information,
pertinent source information and other pertinent information to the
item broadcast.
[0709] At least one data set, containing all the pertinent
information, is sent to a database associated with a communication
facility, as shown in FIGS. 1-7.
[0710] At least one other data set is prepared for broadcasting, as
shown in FIGS. 1-4, FIGS. 6-7, and FIGS. 15A, 16A, 17A, 18A, 19A,
and 21A. Information fields can be added to the data set in the
second and third parts of functionality common to FIG. 1-7 and as
shown in FIG. 27.
[0711] This information, collated from the data sets sent directly
to the database and the data sets that are received by the database
as a result of user response, may be of interest to a facilitator,
broadcasting facility, advertising agency, vendors, and others,
such as statistical data concerning audience response tracking.
[0712] In FIGS. 15A-21 examples of data sets and fields are shown
that relate to the data sets broadcast by the broadcasting
facility. Information into a field may be added, such as GPS
coordinates, time of contact, and relevant user identity details,
as indicated by an arrow pointing into a field, at various points
in the described embodiments of FIGS. 1-4 and FIGS. 6-7.
Information in a field may be accessed at various points in the
described embodiments of FIGS. 1-4 and FIGS. 6-7, as indicated by
an arrow pointing out of a field. The abbreviations used to
describe the information fields, as shown in FIGS. 15A-15E 16A-16E
17A-17E 18A-18E 19A-19E 20A-20E 21A-21E, are elucidated
hereinbelow.
[0713] The embodiments of FIGS. 1-4 and FIGS. 6-7 data sets are
broadcast in synchronicity with an audio broadcast, for instance as
an RDS subcarrier signal (FIGS. 1-3 and 6), as an embedded digital
signal (FIG. 4) or as a multiplexed cable signal (FIG. 7).
[0714] In embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 6, the broadcast data set, as
shown in FIGS. 15A, 19A, and 20A, contains both the non
product-specific (NON P-S) contact information and the
product-specific (P-S) contact information together with pertinent
information pertaining to the product description and other
pertinent information not necessarily pertaining to the product
description. It is appreciated that product description can include
information concerning product offers, music, regular programs,
news items, and traffic reports. Pertinent information pertaining
to the product description may include information such as a
product name, for instance "WATER" or "FREE WATER" as shown in the
embodiments described herein. It is appreciated that other
pertinent information can include, song lyrics, artist name,
discount deals, and coupon details, and stock price quotes.
[0715] Other fields, as shown in FIGS. 15-21, include the station
ID, such as RADIO NY; broadcast time, that is the time the data set
was broadcast; the event ID, that is a unique identifier of the
data set; a vendor ID, that is a unique identifier of a vendor
associated with the broadcast message; NON P-S URL, that is a non
product-specific web site address; P-S URL, that is a
product-specific web site address; NON P-S PHONE #, that is a non
product-specific telephone number; and P-S PHONE #, that is a
product-specific telephone number.
[0716] In embodiments of FIGS. 2, 3, 4, and 7, the data set
broadcast as the non-audio content portion contains a
product-specific code, such as #1234#. The identical code is also
part of the data set sent directly to the database of the
communication facility, as shown for example in FIG. 2. As shown
for example in FIGS. 16A-16E, a broadcast data set containing a
product-specific code need not contain such information as the
event ID, the vendor ID, the non product-specific contact
information, nor the product-specific contact information. In such
a case the non product-specific contact information has been
previously downloaded into the mobile communicator by means such as
a cookie or entered manually.
[0717] It is appreciated that all or part of the information
contained in the data set fields may be encrypted. Decryption may
take place when information contained within a field is accessed
for use, for instance for display on a display or for directing a
browser to a web site.
[0718] In the embodiment described by FIG. 5, no data set is
broadcast by the broadcasting facility with the audio message. The
pertinent information is transmitted directly from the non
product-specific server to the mobile communicator.
[0719] Reference is now made to FIG. 26 which illustrates capture
functionality employed in the embodiment of FIG. 23 and of FIGS.
1-4 and 6. If the radio station being listened to is not
automatically known to the mobile communicator, it must be entered
by the user. If the mobile communicator is a GPRS or 3G
communicator, such as in the embodiment of FIG. 5, a browser is
opened to a non product-specific portal. If the mobile communicator
is not a GPRS or 3G device, such as in the embodiments of FIGS. 1-4
and 6, the CAPTURE command of the user may be acted upon either by
the radio or by the mobile communicator. It is noted that the
CAPTURE command, if not provided simultaneously with receipt of the
audio portion of the product-specific message may be effective to
produce a scroll-back functionality to capture earlier received and
temporarily stored non-audio portions of product-specific
messages.
[0720] The CAPTURE command may be effected orally, or manually, as
by pressing a button on a radio, a mobile communicator or an
interface assembly as inter alia in the embodiments of FIGS. 8E,
8F, 9E and 9F.
[0721] The captured data set, such as the data set appearing in
FIG. 15C, is stored in the mobile communicator until needed. A
successful capture indication may be provided to the user.
[0722] Reference is now made to FIG. 24, which is a simplified
flowchart illustrating of a third part of the functionality common
to FIGS. 1-6. FIG. 24 illustrates interaction between the mobile
communicator and the non-product specific communication facility
and product specific communication facilities. As seen in FIG. 24,
interactive contact preferably is initially established between the
user via the mobile communicator with the non product-specific
communication facility. This may include contact established via a
telephone communication, an Internet communication or any other
suitable type of communication and may involve a server or a
telephone center at the non product-specific communication
facility.
[0723] Concurrently with or following establishment of the contact
between the mobile communicator and the non product-specific
communication facility, there is preferably established contact
between the non product-specific communication facility and an
appropriate product-specific communication facility, preferably
identified by information contained in the data set received by and
stored in the mobile communicator. Preferably, such contact
established effective contact between the user and, the
product-specific communication facility. This effective contact may
be directly between the mobile communicator and the
product-specific communication facility or it may be indirect, such
as via the non product-specific communication facility. One or more
transaction may be carried out based on this effective contact.
[0724] For the purposes of the present application, the term
"transaction" may refer to a commercial transaction but need not be
so limited. Particularly in the case of commercial transactions,
various details of the transaction are preferably provided via a
facilitator to pertinent parties. For example, when a product is
purchased, a series of financial transfers may result, including,
for example, a transfer of funds from a user or his bank to a
supplier, a transfer of funds from the supplier to an advertiser or
vice versa and a transfer of funds from the supplier to a broadcast
facility. Where a free product is provided to a user, for example,
a transfer of funds from the advertiser to the supplier may be
involved. Another type of transaction may be simply provision of
information with or without cost to the user. In such a case, the
product is a service. An example is in depth news content which may
be made available to a user upon capture of non-audio content
accompanying a news flash.
[0725] The facilitator may have multiple functions, not limited to
financial arrangements and transfers. For example, the facilitator
may provide market data based on the various contacts and
transactions to one or more interested parties. In accordance with
a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the facilitator
functionality may advantageously be provided by the same party as
that which operates the non product-specific communication facility
and may employ some of the computer equipment, such as a database,
at least partially in common.
[0726] Reference is now made to FIG. 27, which is a simplified
flowchart illustrating the contact feature of a third part of the
functionality common to FIGS. 1-6. Upon issuing a "CONTACT"
command, either orally or manually, a mobile communicator, such as
shown in FIGS. 1-6, will establish a communication link between the
user and a product-specific communication center via a non-product
specific communication center. Such a communication link may be an
Internet connection to a web server or a telephone connection to a
telephone center or any combination thereof. FIGS. 1-6 describe
mobile communicators, such as web-enabled PDAs, WAP phones, a
cellular phone-enabled PDAs, vehicle PCs and regular cellular
phones that may operate in at least one of these two modes.
[0727] In the case where the mode of mobile communication is by
wireless Internet connectivity, contact is established primarily
between the mobile communicator and a non product-specific web site
using the URL address obtained by means such as the non-audio
content data set, a resident cookie or directly by the user. In
FIGS. 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6 such a non product-specific URL is shown as
WWW.PORTAL.COM.
[0728] Upon establishing such a connection, information such as a
user ID and GPS coordinates may be added to the data set, as shown
for example in FIG. 15D.
[0729] In the cases that the broadcast data set contains the
product-specific contact information the server may directly enable
the user to establish a secondary communication link with a
product-specific web site. In FIGS. 1 and 6, for example, such a
product-specific URL is shown as WWW.MWATER/FREE.COM. It is
appreciated that the URL accessed in this manner may be of varying
length and complication so as to permit the user access to very
specific web locations. By such means, a user can receive
information pertaining to very specific products or services.
[0730] In embodiments such as of FIGS. 3 and 4, where
product-specific codes are broadcast within the non-audio data set
instead of explicit product-specific contact information, the
mobile communicator primarily establishes contact with a non
product-specific web server as described hereinabove. The code is
transferred to the database where it is matched against the data
set sent directly by the broadcasting facility to the database, as
described in FIG. 25. The product-specific contact information is
transferred back to the non product-specific server thus enabling a
secondary communication link to be established between the user an
the product-specific web site. It is appreciated that the URL
accessed in this manner may be of varying length and complication
so as to permit the user access to very specific web locations. By
such means, a user can receive information pertaining to very
specific products or services.
[0731] In the case where the mode of mobile communication is by a
cellular phone connection, contact is established primarily between
the mobile communicator and a non product-specific telephone center
using the telephone number obtained by means such as the non-audio
content data set, a resident coolie or directly by the user. In
FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 such a non product-specific telephone
number is shown as 1-800-864-2222.
[0732] Upon establishing such a connection, information such as a
user ID and GPS coordinates may be added to the data set, as shown
for example in FIG. 15D. Alternatively, positional information may
be obtained from the cellular operators and attached to the data
set in the database.
[0733] In the cases that the broadcast data set contains the
product-specific contact information the server may directly enable
the user to establish a secondary communication link with a
product-specific telephone center. In FIGS. 1 and 6, for example,
such a product-specific telephone number is shown as 1-800-WATER4U.
By such means, a user can receive information pertaining to very
specific products or services.
[0734] In embodiments such as of FIG. 2, where product-specific
codes are broadcast within the non-audio data set instead of
explicit product-specific contact information, the mobile
communicator primarily establishes contact with a non
product-specific telephone center as described hereinabove. The
telephone center establishes contact with a non-product-specific
server maintained within a common communication facility. The code
is transferred to the database where it is matched against the data
set sent directly by the broadcasting facility to the database, as
described in FIG. 25. The product-specific contact information is
transferred back to the non product-specific server and from there
to the non product-specific telephone center. Accessing the
product-specific contact information enables the non
product-specific telephone center to establish a secondary
communication link between the user and the product-specific
telephone center. By such means, a user can receive information
pertaining to very specific products or services.
[0735] All information pertaining to communication transactions
between the user and a product-specific communication center,
whether obtained from the data sets or otherwise, is stored in the
database that may be maintained within a common communication
facility as the non product-specific server and the non
product-specific telephone center.
[0736] Reference is now made to FIG. 28 which is a simplified block
diagram illustrating the multi-functionality that a facilitator may
have within the functionality common to FIGS. 1-7. The facilitator
may have multiple functions, not limited to financial arrangements
and transfers. For example, the facilitator may provide market data
based on the various contacts and transactions to one or more
interested parties. The facilitator may be responsible for the
distribution of coupons to users as a result of a transaction
performed by a user using the system described herewithin. The
facilitator may coordinate between the supplier of goods purchased
using the system described herewithin and the purchaser. The
facilitator may coordinate scheduling of broadcast messages with
non-audio data content as described herein with the broadcasting
facility. The facilitator may have access to and prepare audience
tracking statistics for interested parties, such as advertising
agencies, vendors and broadcasting facility management. The
facilitator may coordinate with an advertising agency the non-audio
data content that is associated with a commercial message. In
accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention,
the facilitator functionality may advantageously be provided by the
same party as that which operates the non product-specific
communication facility and may employ some of the computer
equipment, such as a database, at least partially in common.
* * * * *
References